Advertisement
Quantum computing
ChinaScience

China makes prototype fridge able to reach quantum computing temperatures

  • Almost ‘absolute zero’ device will help develop sector needing extremely cold conditions
  • Home-grown means another move closer to nation being technologically self-reliant

Reading Time:2 minutes
Why you can trust SCMP
4
Prototype of a new “refrigerator” capable of reaching the ultra-low temperatures needed for quantum computing. Photo: Chinese Academy of Sciences
Holly Chik
Chinese scientists have developed a prototype “refrigerator” capable of reaching the ultra-low temperatures needed for quantum computing.
According to state-run media, the Institute of Physics at the Chinese Academy of Sciences in Beijing believes the new made-in-China cooler can tackle a major problem in quantum computing and is a big step towards the country becoming technologically self-reliant.
A real challenge for quantum computing – which has the potential to do many things, including speeding up the development of artificial intelligence – is the need for extremely cold and isolated environments.

01:28

Japanese AI checks workers for proper handwashing amid coronavirus pandemic

Japanese AI checks workers for proper handwashing amid coronavirus pandemic

Ji Zhongqing, a research fellow at the academy, told Science and Technology Daily on Tuesday: “The team will continue to improve technology so that a new generation of refrigerators under construction will reach the quality of imported products in terms of usability and stability.”

Xinhua, also on Tuesday, said the machine can realise an ultra-low temperature just 0.01 degrees Celsius higher than absolute zero, which is -273.15 degrees Celsius. Absolute zero is the lowest possible temperature, where nothing can be colder.

Qubits, or the central part of quantum computers, must be kept very cold inside a special refrigerator near the temperature where atoms stop moving. China has invested huge amounts in quantum computing.

Advertisement
Select Voice
Choose your listening speed
Get through articles 2x faster
1.25x
250 WPM
Slow
Average
Fast
1.25x