Quantum Computer Unveils Atomic Dynamics of Light-Sensitive Molecules

Researchers at Duke University have used a quantum simulator, developed from research in quantum computing, to observe a quantum effect known as a conical intersection in light-absorbing molecules. This effect governs the motion of electrons between energy states and has implications for processes such as photosynthesis and vision. By slowing down the simulated molecular quantum effects by a billion times, the researchers were able to directly measure the geometric phase, a mathematical constraint that determines certain molecular transformations. The results provide insights into the inner workings of complex quantum systems and demonstrate the potential of quantum computers in investigating fundamental science.