A new quantum computational set-up for algebraic topology via simplicial sets

Abstract

In this paper, a quantum computational framework for algebraic topology based on simplicial set theory is presented. This extends previous work, which was limited to simplicial complexes and aimed mostly to topological data analysis. The proposed set--up applies to any parafinite simplicial set and proceeds by associating with it a finite dimensional simplicial Hilbert space, whose simplicial operator structure is studied in some depth. It is shown in particular how the problem of determining the simplicial set's homology can be solved within the simplicial Hilbert framework. Further, the conditions under which simplicial set theoretic algorithms can be implemented in a quantum computational setting with finite resources are examined. Finally a quantum algorithmic scheme capable to compute the simplicial homology spaces and Betti numbers of a simplicial set combining a number of basic quantum algorithms is outlined.