News Quantum Physics

Scientists are one step closer to error-correcting quantum computers

Multiple quantum bits were combined into one ‘logical qubit’ to detect mistakes

chip used to trap ytterbium ions

Scientists used a chip (shown) to trap ytterbium ions that serve as the quantum bits for a quantum computer.

Kai Hudek/JQI

By Emily Conover

- More than 2 years ago

Mistakes happen — especially in quantum computers. The fragile quantum bits, or qubits, that make up the machines are notoriously error-prone, but now scientists have shown that they can fix the flubs.