Scientists have made a major breakthrough towards making an incredibly powerful quantum computer.

Quantum computers use sub-atomic particles which can be in two places at the same time.

A team from the University of Sussex have demonstrated that they can connect quantum microchips together, similar to a jigsaw puzzle, to make a more powerful quantum computer.

According to Professor Winfried Hensinger, who led the research, the development will pave the way for computers to solve incredibly complex problems that even the best computers are currently incapable of.

Prof Hesinger said: “As quantum computers grow, we will eventually be constrained by the size of the microchip, which limits the number of quantum bits such a chip can accommodate.

“As such, we knew a modular approach was key to making quantum computers powerful enough to solve step-changing industry problems.

“In demonstrating that we can connect two quantum computing chips - a bit like a jigsaw puzzle - and, crucially, that it works so well, we unlock the potential to scale up by connecting hundreds or even thousands of quantum computing microchips.”

Currently, computers can only solve problems in a linear way and by completing one at a time, but quantum computers would be able to complete multiple calculations all at once.

Professor Sasha Roseneil, vice-chancellor at the University of Sussex, praised the discovery as “fantastic”.

She said: “This takes us a significant step closer to a quantum computer that will be of real societal use.

“These computers are set to have boundless applications - from improving the development of medicines, creating new materials, to maybe even unlocking solutions to the climate crisis.

“The University of Sussex is investing significantly in quantum computing to support our bold ambition to host the world’s most powerful quantum computers and create change that has the potential to positively impact so many people across the world.

“With teams spanning the spectrum of quantum computing and technology research, the University of Sussex has both a breadth and a deputy of expertise in this.

“We are still growing our research and teaching in this area, with plans for new teaching programmes and new appointments.”