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arXiv:1901.03186

Knot theory and quantum computing

Robin Gaudreau, David Ledvinka

Published Jan 9, 2019• 0 citations
arXivHTMLPDF

Abstract

This paper explores the interactions between knot theory and quantum computing. On one side, knot theory has been used to create models of quantum computing, and on the other, it is a source of computational problems. Knot theory is often used to introduce topological idea to people without a formal mathematical background, and we are building on this tradition to discuss some of the deeper ideas of quantum computing.

DOI
10.48550/arxiv.1901.03186

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This paper explores the interactions between knot theory and quantum computing. On one side, knot theory has been used to create models of quantum computing, and on the other, it is a source of computational problems. Knot theory is often used to introduce topological idea to people without a formal mathematical background, and we are building on this tradition to discuss some of the deeper ideas of quantum computing.
We analyze the connections between the mathematical theory of knots and quantum physics by addressing a number of algorithmic questions related to both knots and braid groups. Knots can be distinguished by means of “knot invariants,” among which the Jones polynomial plays a prominent role, since it can be associated with observables in topological quantum field theory. Although the problem of computing the Jones polynomial is intractable in the framework of classical complexity theory, it has been recently recognized that a quantum computer is capable of approximating it in an efficient way. The quantum algorithms discussed here represent a breakthrough for quantum computation, since approximating the Jones polynomial is actually a “universal problem,” namely, the hardest problem that a quantum computer can efficiently handle.
In this paper, we will present some ideas to use 3D topology for quantum computing extending ideas from a previous paper. Topological quantum computing used “knotted” quantum states of topological phases of matter, called anyons. But anyons are connected with surface topology. But surfaces have (usually) abelian fundamental groups and therefore one needs non-Abelian anyons to use it for quantum computing. But usual materials are 3D objects which can admit more complicated topologies. Here, complements of knots do play a prominent role and are in principle the main parts to understand 3-manifold topology. For that purpose, we will construct a quantum system on the complements of a knot in the 3-sphere (see T. Asselmeyer-Maluga, Quantum Rep. 3 (2021) 153, arXiv:2102.04452 for previous work). The whole system is designed as knotted superconductor, where every crossing is a Josephson junction and the qubit is realized as flux qubit. We discuss the properties of this systems in particular the fluxion quantization by using the A-polynomial of the knot. Furthermore, we showed that 2-qubit operations can be realized by linked (knotted) superconductors again coupled via a Josephson junction.
Abstract At the intersection of physics, mathematics, and computer science, an exciting new field of study has formed, known as “topological quantum.” This research field examines the deep connections between the theory of knots, special types of subatomic particles known as anyons, certain phases of matter, and quantum computation. This book elucidates this nexus, drawing in topics ranging from quantum gravity to topology to experimental condensed matter physics. Requiring only an elementary background in quantum mechanics, this book is appropriate for all readers, from advanced undergraduates to the professional practitioner. The material in presented in a down-to-earth and entertaining way that is far less abstract than most of what is in the literature. While introducing the crucial concepts and placing them in context, the subject is presented without resort to the highly mathematical category theory that underlies the field. This book will be of interest to mathematicians and computer scientists as well as physicists working on a wide range of topics. “Topological quantum” has increasingly been a focus point in the fields of condensed matter physics and quantum information over the last few decades, and the forefront of research now builds on the basic ideas presented in this book. Those interested in working in these field will find this book to be an invaluable introduction as well as a crucial reference.
This paper investigates the application of quantum algorithms to enhance the prediction of topological knot topology. Traditional methods often struggle with the inherent complexity of these structures, particularly in their intricate knot configurations. We propose a novel 'Quantum Topological Knot Reconstruction' algorithm, leveraging quantum superposition to effectively reconstruct the knot structure. The core claim is that this algorithm, when implemented with suitable quantum hardware, will significantly improve the accuracy and speed of predicting topological knot properties, potentially unlocking new discoveries in materials science and theoretical physics. The paper details the algorithm's design, explores its potential benefits, and discusses the challenges and future directions of this research.
Abstract This paper is an introduction to relationships between quantum topology and quantum computing. We discuss unitary solutions to the YangBaxter equation that are universal quantum gates, quantum entanglement and topological entanglement, and we give an exposition of knot-theoretic recoupling theory, its relationship with topological quantum field theory and apply these methods to produce unitary representations of the braid groups that are dense in the unitary groups. Our methods are rooted in the bracket state sum model for the Jones polynomial. We give our results for a large class of representations based on values for the bracket polynomial that are roots of unity. We make a separate and self-contained study of the quantum universal Fibonacci model in this framework. We apply our results to give quantum algorithms for the computation of the colored Jones polynomials for knots and links, and the Witten-Reshetikhin-Turaev invariant of three manifolds.