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  • Open Access

Real-time scattering processes with continuous-variable quantum computers

Steven Abel1,2,*, Michael Spannowsky1,†, and Simon Williams1,‡

  • *Contact author: s.a.abel@durham.ac.uk
  • †Contact author: michael.spannowsky@durham.ac.uk
  • ‡Contact author: simon.j.williams@durham.ac.uk
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Phys. Rev. A 112, 012614 – Published 16 July, 2025

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1103/q36d-w649

Abstract

We propose a framework for simulating the real-time dynamics of quantum field theories using continuous-variable quantum computing (CVQC). Focusing on (1+1)-dimensional φ4 scalar field theory, the approach employs the Hamiltonian formalism to map the theory onto a spatial lattice, with fields represented as quantum harmonic oscillators. Using measurement-based quantum computing, we implement non-Gaussian operations for CQVC platforms. The study introduces methods for preparing initial states with specific momenta and simulating their evolution under the φ4 Hamiltonian. Key quantum objects, such as two-point correlation functions, validate the framework against analytical solutions. Scattering simulations further illustrate how mass and coupling strength influence field dynamics and energy redistribution. Thus, we demonstrate CVQC's scalability for larger lattice systems and its potential for simulating more complex field theories.

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Outline

Information

Phys. Rev. A 112, 012614– Published 16 July, 2025
  • Received 7 March 2025
  • Accepted 23 June 2025
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Published by the American Physical Society under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International license. Further distribution of this work must maintain attribution to the author(s) and the published article's title, journal citation, and DOI.

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