Quantum simulation of the Klein paradox with trapped ions

Understand

We report on quantum simulations of relativistic scattering dynamics using trapped ions.

• The simulated state of a scattering particle is encoded in both the electronic and vibrational state of an ion, representing the discrete and continuous components of relativistic wave functions.
• Multiple laser fields and an auxiliary ion simulate the dynamics generated by the Dirac equation in the presence of a scattering potential.
• Measurement and reconstruction of the particle wave packet enables a frame-by-frame visualization of the scattering processes.