Simulating Parton Fragmentation on Quantum Computers

TL;DR

This paper introduces a quantum computing framework for evaluating parton fragmentation functions, enabling first-principles studies of hadronization processes that are difficult with traditional methods.

Contribution

It proposes a novel quantum algorithm-based approach to compute fragmentation functions, including the construction of semi-inclusive hadron operators and error mitigation techniques.

Findings

Efficient construction of semi-inclusive hadron operators using variational quantum algorithms

Successful numerical simulations within the Nambu-Jona-Lasinio model

Development of error mitigation strategies for noisy quantum computations

Abstract

Parton fragmentation functions (FFs) are indispensable for understanding processes of hadron production ubiquitously existing in high-energy collisions, but their first principle determination has never been realized due to the insurmountable difficulties in encoding their operator definition using traditional lattice methodology. We propose a framework that makes a first step for evaluating FFs utilizing quantum computing methodology. The key element is to construct a semi-inclusive hadron operator for filtering out hadrons of desired types in a collection of particles encoded in the quantum state. We illustrate the framework by elaborating on the Nambu-Jona-Lasinio model with numeral simulations. Remarkably, We show that the semi-inclusive hadron operator can be constructed efficiently with a variational quantum algorithm. Moreover, we develop error mitigation techniques tailed for accurately calculating the FFs in the presence of quantum noises. Our work opens a new avenue for investigating QCD hadronization on near-term quantum computers.