Surface ion trap Gluon string breaking has been simulated on a quantum device like this one. The blue dots illustrate the ions trapped within the device. (Courtesy: Duke University)"> Surface ion trap Gluon string breaking has been simulated on a quantum device like this one. The blue dots illustrate the ions trapped within the device. (Courtesy: Duke University)

The particle-physics process of string breaking has been modelled on a trapped ion quantum computer by researchers in the US. The results are similar to independent studies using neutral atom quantum simulators and superconducting quantum computers. The work suggests that traditional models of string breaking need to be modified slightly.

The strong interaction is the force that binds quarks together inside hadrons such as protons and neutrons. Unlike gravity, electromagnetism and the weak interaction, which all diminish with distance – its effect becomes stronger as particles are pulled apart.…