Probing Topological Spin Liquids on a Programmable Quantum Simulator

TL;DR

This study demonstrates the use of a large programmable quantum simulator to create and detect topological spin liquid states, advancing understanding of topological quantum matter and potential quantum computing applications.

Contribution

It introduces a method to realize and probe topological spin liquids using a 219-atom quantum simulator on a kagome lattice, including detection of topological order via string operators.

Findings

Detection of topological spin liquid phase using string operators

Implementation of a topologically nontrivial atom array

First experimental steps towards topological quantum encoding

Abstract

Quantum spin liquids, exotic phases of matter with topological order, have been a major focus of explorations in physical science for the past several decades. Such phases feature long-range quantum entanglement that can potentially be exploited to realize robust quantum computation. We use a 219-atom programmable quantum simulator to probe quantum spin liquid states. In our approach, arrays of atoms are placed on the links of a kagome lattice and evolution under Rydberg blockade creates frustrated quantum states with no local order. The onset of a quantum spin liquid phase of the paradigmatic toric code type is detected by evaluating topological string operators that provide direct signatures of topological order and quantum correlations. Its properties are further revealed by using an atom array with nontrivial topology, representing a first step towards topological encoding. Our observations enable the controlled experimental exploration of topological quantum matter and protected quantum information processing.