it's important to note that the term "time crystal" has been the subject of some controversy and interpretation among scientists, and there is ongoing debate about the exact nature and properties of time crystals.
In the context of the experiment conducted by the Google team, they utilized a specific type of quantum computer called a programmable gate-based quantum computer. The experimental setup involved a chain of qubits (quantum bits) arranged in a one-dimensional array, similar to a crystal lattice structure. The qubits were designed to interact with each other in a controlled manner.
To create the time crystal, the researchers implemented a sequence of quantum gates (operations) on the qubits, which resulted in a specific pattern of interactions and entanglement. The interactions were carefully engineered to induce a time-translation symmetry breaking, leading to the emergence of a time crystal-like behavior in the system.
The key feature of the crystalline structure in this context is its ability to maintain long-range correlations and entanglement between the qubits. The arrangement of the qubits in a regular and repetitive structure allows for the propagation of information and interactions over long distances, enabling the time crystal-like behavior to emerge.
It's worth noting that the experimental realization of time crystals using quantum computers is still in its early stages, and the interpretation and understanding of these phenomena are actively evolving. Further research and experimentation are required to confirm and fully comprehend the properties and implications of time crystals.
In summary, the use of a crystalline structure in the creation of a time crystal using a quantum computer allows for the maintenance of long-range correlations and entanglement between qubits, enabling the emergence of time-translation symmetry breaking and time crystal-like behavior.