Variational quantum simulation using non-Gaussian continuous-variable systems

TL;DR

This paper presents a continuous-variable variational quantum eigensolver for simulating ground states of infinite-dimensional Hamiltonians, demonstrating its effectiveness on the Bose-Hubbard model using photonic technology.

Contribution

It introduces a novel continuous-variable quantum simulation framework that avoids Hilbert space truncation, enabling direct comparison with discrete systems.

Findings

Effective simulation of the Bose-Hubbard model

Compatibility with current photonic technology

Potential for exploring complex quantum systems

Abstract

This work introduces a novel approach to quantum simulation by leveraging continuous-variable systems within a photonic hardware-inspired framework. The primary focus is on simulating static properties of the ground state of Hamiltonians associated with infinite-dimensional systems, such as those arising in quantum field theory. We present a continuous-variable variational quantum eigensolver compatible with state-of-the-art photonic technology. The framework we introduce allows us to compare discrete and continuous variable systems without introducing a truncation of the Hilbert space, opening the possibility to investigate the scenarios where one of the two formalisms performs better. We apply it to the study of static properties of the Bose--Hubbard model and demonstrate its effectiveness and practicality, highlighting the potential of continuous-variable quantum simulations in addressing complex problems in quantum physics.