Implementation of a three-quantum-bit search algorithm

We report the experimental implementation of Grover's quantum search algorithm on a quantum computer with three quantum bits. The computer consists of molecules of 13C-labeled CHFBr2, in which the three weakly coupled spin-1/2 nuclei behave as the bits and are initialized, manipulated, and read out using magnetic resonance techniques. This quantum computation is made possible by the introduction of two techniques which significantly reduce the complexity of the experiment and by the surprising degree of cancellation of systematic errors which have previously limited the total possible number of quantum gates. © 2000 American Institute of Physics.