Chinese researchers have controlled a temporary stable phase in quantum systems, putting quantum chaos in slow motion and offering a possible avenue for preserving quantum information. This allows scientists to tune the speed of quantum decoherence, providing a vital tool for managing complex quantum environments.
Researchers from the Institute of Physics at the Chinese Academy of Sciences have reported in Nature that they used a superconducting quantum processor to control a temporary stable phase in quantum systems, known as prethermalization. This achievement slows quantum chaos, akin to nudging a pendulum: it swings for a while but eventually slows and stops.
Led by Fan Heng, the team observed that when a quantum system is disturbed, it naturally returns to equilibrium, with energy and information spreading until evenly distributed. By tuning the system, they extended this stable phase, offering longer preservation of quantum information. This could benefit applications like quantum computing and quantum key distribution, potentially enhancing security in systems similar to RSA.
Fan Heng stated that the finding provides a new tool for quantum information processing, aiding in handling complex quantum environments. The study was published on February 20, 2026, highlighting China's advances in quantum science.