ZAP // Dall-E-2
A quantum Rubik’s Cube would be infinitely more complex than a traditional puzzle, but mathematical modeling proves that it would not be insoluble.
The quantum magic cube is a concept that takes the traditional puzzle to a level of immensely superior complexity.
In 2022, researchers at the University of Colorado, led by Noah Lordi and Maedée Trank-Greenedecided to mathematically model a quantum Rubik’s Cube to estimate the possible configurations of the puzzle.
If, in a traditional Rubik’s Cube, each of the six faces is divided into nine colored squares, resulting in more than a billion trillion configurations; in turn, in a quantum magic cube, each square is represented by a type of particle.
As explained by , this cube requires that identical particles end up together on one face, just like in a conventional cube.
However, the quantum version allows for an extra element: particles can exist in a superposition – that is, they can be simultaneously in an initial and switched position.
This characteristic led the team to speculate how many configurations the quantum puzzle would have.
And the answer is…
Trank-Greene suggested that, due to superpositions, the configurations of a quantum Rubik’s Cube would be infinite.
In a study now in arXivthe scientist managed to confirm the theory.
Despite its complexity, the quantum Rubik’s Cube can effectively be solved, with a specific sequence of moves until the solution.
However, unlike the traditional cube, which can be solved in a few seconds, the quantum version may require millions of movements.
This type of puzzle reflects a quantum computing challenge with digital quantum bits, offering the potential to simulate complex phenomena.
At New Scientist, Enrico Pratifrom the University of Milan, highlights that, in addition to the fun factor, these simulations can be useful in quantum computersenabling advances in areas such as mesoscopic physical systems.
“We can expect quantum puzzles to be available on quantum computers not just for playing games, but also for exploring chemistry, phase transitions and systems [físicos] mesoscopic,” he explains.
