Theoretically, quantum computers can overcome the physical limitations presented by classical computers by encoding and decoding quantum states. Single-molecule magnets have been utilized for the Grover algorithm, a quantum search theory. The quantum search problem typically requests for a specific element to be retrieved from an unordered database. Classically the element would be retrieved after N/2 attempts, however a quantum search utilizes superpositions of data in order to retrieve the element, theoretically reducing the search to a single query. Single molecular magnets are considered ideal for this function due to their cluster of independent spins. A study conducted by Leuenberger and Loss, specifically utilized crystals to amplify the moment of the single spin molecule magnets Mn12 and Fe8. Mn12 and Fe8 were both found to be ideal for memory storage with a retrieval time of approximately 10−10 seconds. Another approach to information storage with SMM Fe4 involves the application of a gate voltage for a state transition from neutral to anionic. Using electrically gated molecular magnets offers the advantage of control over the cluster of spins during a shortened time scale. The electric field can be applied to the SMM using a tunneling microscope tip or a strip-line. The corresponding changes in conductance are unaffected by the magnetic states, proving that information storage could be performed at much higher temperatures than the blocking temperature. The specific mode of information transfer includes DVD to another readable medium, as shown with Mn12 patterned molecules on polymers. Another application for SMMs is in magnetocaloric refrigerants . A machine learning approach using experimental data has been able to predict novel SMMs that would have large entropy changes, and therefore more suitable for magnetic refrigeration. Three hypothetical SMMs are proposed for experimental synthesis:Cr2Gd2(OAc)5+, Mn2Gd2(OAc)5+, [Fe4Gd6(O3PCH2Ph)6(O2CtBu)14(MeCN)2]. The main SMM characteristics that contribute to the entropy properties include dimensionality and the coordinating ligands. In addition, single-molecule magnets have provided physicists with useful test-beds for the study of quantum mechanics. Macroscopic quantum tunneling of the magnetization was first observed in Mn12O12, characterized by evenly spaced steps in the hysteresis curve. The periodic quenching of this tunneling rate in the compound Fe8 has been observed and explained with geometric phases. See also Ferromagnetism Antiferromagnetism Magnetic anisotropy Single-molecule experiment Magnetism Superparamagnetism Magnetochemistry References External links Molecular Magnetism Web, Jürgen Schnack Condensed matter physics Quantum magnetism Types of magnets