aiqbench analysis
This research introduces a novel quantum algorithm for simulating complex classical oscillator networks with non-Markovian dissipation, extending previous speedups to realistic viscoelastic media. By embedding history-dependent dynamics into a Markovian state space, the study demonstrates quartic speedups for locally coupled systems in three dimensions while proving that certain energy estimation tasks remain classically hard (BQP-complete). These findings establish a theoretical foundation for practical quantum advantages in modeling damped wave equations and time-varying material properties.
Quantum Simulation of Dissipative Non-Markovian Coupled Classical Oscillators
arXiv:2609.20721v1 Announce Type: new Abstract: We present a quantum algorithm for simulating classical oscillator networks characterized by non-Markovian dissipation and time-varying material properties, extending recent speedups for undamped harmonic systems to viscoacoustic and viscoelastic media. We embed the history-dependent dynamics into a Markovian state space governed by a non-Hermitian operator by approximating memory kernels through a Prony series. We then use linear combination of Hamiltonian simulation to estimate the instantaneous kinetic and potential energy for a subset of oscillators at time $t$ within error $\epsilon$ using a number of queries to the oscillator system that scales as $\widetilde{\mathcal{O}}(\alpha_{\rm tot} t/\epsilon)$, where $\alpha_{\rm tot}$ is polynomial in the strength of the dissipation, spring constants, inverse masses, and sparsity of the connections in the network. We further show that this energy estimation task is in the worst-case classically hard (i.e., a corresponding decision problem is $\mathsf{BQP}$-complete), even in the presence of strong dissipation. For time-dependent materials, we show that changes in material properties appear as effective dissipation or growth in the energy representation. Additionally, we prove the infeasibility of exponential quantum advantages in locally coupled topologies through a novel form of Lieb-Robinson-like bounds that apply to differential equations. This allows our quantum algorithms to provide quartic speedups for locally coupled damped oscillator systems in three dimensions, raising the possibility of practical quantum speedups for realistically damped oscillator networks and approximated wave equations.
Abstract:We present a quantum algorithm for simulating classical oscillator networks characterized by non-Markovian dissipation and time-varying material properties, extending recent speedups for undamped harmonic systems to viscoacoustic and viscoelastic media. We embed the history-dependent dynamics into a Markovian state space governed by a non-Hermitian operator by approximating memory kernels through a Prony series. We then use linear combination of Hamiltonian simulation to estimate the instantaneous kinetic and potential energy for a subset of oscillators at time $t$ within error $\epsilon$ using a number of queries to the oscillator system that scales as $\widetilde{\mathcal{O}}(\alpha_{\rm tot} t/\epsilon)$, where $\alpha_{\rm tot}$ is polynomial in the strength of the dissipation, spring constants, inverse masses, and sparsity of the connections in the network. We further show that this energy estimation task is in the worst-case classically hard (i.e., a corresponding decision problem is $\mathsf{BQP}$-complete), even in the presence of strong dissipation. For time-dependent materials, we show that changes in material properties appear as effective dissipation or growth in the energy representation. Additionally, we prove the infeasibility of exponential quantum advantages in locally coupled topologies through a novel form of Lieb-Robinson-like bounds that apply to differential equations. This allows our quantum algorithms to provide quartic speedups for locally coupled damped oscillator systems in three dimensions, raising the possibility of practical quantum speedups for realistically damped oscillator networks and approximated wave equations.
arXiv:2609.20721 [quant-ph]
(or arXiv:2609.20721v1 [quant-ph] for this version)
https://doi.org/10.48550/arXiv.2609.20721 Focus to learn more arXiv-issued DOI via DataCite (pending registration)
arXivLabs is a framework that allows collaborators to develop and share new arXiv features directly on our website.
Both individuals and organizations that work with arXivLabs have embraced and accepted our values of openness, community, excellence, and user data privacy. arXiv is committed to these values and only works with partners that adhere to them.
Have an idea for a project that will add value for arXiv's community? Learn more about arXivLabs.
Full text under the publisher's open licence · 316 words
Related coverage

Reducing Spatial and Temporal Dimensionality in the Multidimensional Caldeira-Leggett Model
Quantum Journal · Sep 2, 2026

Quantum algorithm simulates complex environments with fewer qubits
Quantum Zeitgeist · Oct 13, 2026

Quantum algorithms for general nonlinear dynamics based on the Carleman embedding
Quantum Journal · Oct 8, 2026
Steady States of a Single Trapped-Ion Spin Coupled to an Engineered Non-Markovian Bath
arXiv · Jul 22, 2026