Models for determining logical error rates for quantum error correction codes operating on qubit arrays with non-uniform physical error rates

Abstract

One example aspect of the present disclosure is directed to a method for operating a quantum computing system (QCS). The method includes accessing a set of physical error rates. Each physical error rate of the set of physical error rates corresponds to a physical error rate of a qubit of the set of qubits. The set of physical error rates is non-uniform. A predicted logical error rate for a quantum error correction (QEC) code is determined. The QEC code corresponds to the set of qubits. Determining the predicted logical error rate is based on the set of physical error rates and a logical error rate model for the QEC code. The QCS is operated in accordance with the predicted logical error rate for the QEC code.