Âé¶¹´«Ã½

Physics

Quantum computer made of 6 super-sized atoms could imitate the brain

Simulations of a quantum computer made of six rubidium atoms suggest it could run a simple brain-inspired algorithm that can learn to remember and make simple decisions

By Karmela Padavic-Callaghan

13 August 2022

D79TNY Rubidium Chemical Element)

Rubidium Rydberg atoms are super-sized in diameter

Science Picture Co/Alamy

A quantum computer built using giant atoms controlled by laser light may be enough to imitate some functions of the brain, such as memory and decision-making.

at Harvard University and his colleagues used computer simulations to show that a new type of quantum computer could be built out of rubidium Rydberg atoms. These atoms are super-sized in diameter because some of their electrons orbit the nuclei at a large distance, and they are extremely sensitive to light so can be very precisely controlled by lasers.

The…

Sign up to our weekly newsletter

Receive a weekly dose of discovery in your inbox. We'll also keep you up to date with Âé¶¹´«Ã½ events and special offers.

Sign up

To continue reading, today with our introductory offers

or

Existing subscribers

Sign in to your account
Piano Exit Overlay Banner Mobile Piano Exit Overlay Banner Desktop