Quantum Lattice Representation for the Curl Equations of Maxwell Equations

TL;DR

This paper introduces a quantum lattice approach for simulating 1D Maxwell curl equations in dielectric media, requiring only 4 qubits per node and accurately capturing electromagnetic wave propagation.

Contribution

It develops a quantum lattice algorithm that directly models Maxwell's curl equations with minimal qubits, advancing quantum simulation methods for electromagnetism.

Findings

Requires only 4 qubits per node for simulation

Achieves second-order accuracy in curl equations

Considers both polarizations in the model

Abstract

A quantum lattice representation (QLA) is devised for the initial value problem of one-dimensional (1D) propagation of an electromagnetic disturbance in a scalar dielectric medium satisfying directly only the two curl equations of Maxwell. It si found that only 4 qubits/node are required. The collision, streaming, and potential operators are determined so as to recover the two curl equations to second order. Both polarizations are considered.