International Journal of Trend in Scientific Research and Development (IJTSRD)

Volume 9 Issue 4, Jul-Aug 2025 Available Online: www.ijtsrd.com e-ISSN: 2456 – 6470

Quantum Computing in Climate Modeling:

Advances and Innovations
Dr. Hemen Kakati
Assistant Professor, Department of Physics, Nalbari College, Nalbari, Assam, India

ABSTRACT How to cite this paper: Dr. Hemen

Quantum computing offers transformative potential for climate Kakati "Quantum Computing in Climate
modeling by leveraging quantum mechanical principles to address Modeling: Advances and Innovations"
computational bottlenecks in classical systems. This article Published in
International Journal
synthesizes advancements from 2023–2025, focusing on molecular
of Trend in
simulations, atmospheric modeling, optimization, and quantum Scientific Research
machine learning (QML). Key results include a 40% improvement in and Development
carbon capture material efficiency, accelerated solutions to Navier- (ijtsrd), ISSN: 2456-
Stokes equations, and 92% accuracy in flood prediction using 6470, Volume-9 | IJTSRD97330
quantum support vector machines (QSVMs). Challenges such as Issue-4, August
limited coherence times, data throughput constraints, and hybrid 2025, pp.739-744, URL:
system integration persist. Near-term applications with noisy www.ijtsrd.com/papers/ijtsrd97330.pdf
intermediate-scale quantum (NISQ) devices and long-term prospects
with fault-tolerant systems are explored, emphasizing Copyright © 2025 by author (s) and
International Journal of Trend in
interdisciplinary collaboration to align quantum solutions with
Scientific Research and Development
climate challenges. Journal. This is an
Open Access article
distributed under the
terms of the Creative Commons
Attribution License (CC BY 4.0)
(http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0)

1. INTRODUCTION
Climate modeling is a highly complex task due to the ongoing challenges, and future possibilities. The
intricate processes governing Earth’s systems, such as methodology section explains how quantum
molecular interactions in materials used for carbon computing is applied through three main approaches:
capture, turbulent air movements in the atmosphere, quantum simulation, which models physical systems
and the dynamic behavior of ecosystems. Traditional at the molecular level; quantum optimization, which
supercomputers, despite their power, face significant improves efficiency in tasks like energy grid
limitations when dealing with these processes. For management; and quantum machine learning (QML),
example, modeling fine-scale phenomena like cloud which enhances data analysis for climate predictions.
formation or optimizing renewable energy grids The results and discussion sections analyze the
becomes computationally overwhelming because the outcomes of these applications, such as more efficient
calculations grow exponentially with system size [1]. carbon capture materials and faster weather modeling,
Quantum computing offers a promising solution by while also addressing limitations like the current
leveraging unique properties like superposition, constraints of Noisy Intermediate-Scale Quantum
entanglement, and quantum tunneling, which allow it (NISQ) devices, which have short coherence times
to solve certain problems much faster than classical and limited data processing capabilities. The
computers, potentially achieving exponential speed conclusion looks ahead, outlining how quantum
improvements [2]. computing could lead to practical climate solutions in
Research conducted between 2023 and 2025 has the coming decades. It emphasizes the importance of
shown practical ways quantum computing can help collaboration between quantum computing experts
address climate challenges. These include discovering and climate scientists to overcome technical barriers
better materials for capturing carbon and improving and develop innovative tools for tackling global
the accuracy of high-resolution weather forecasts [3]. environmental challenges, from reducing greenhouse
This article provides a comprehensive review of these gas emissions to preparing for extreme weather
advancements, focusing on key achievements, events.

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 International Journal of Trend in Scientific Research and Development @ www.ijtsrd.com eISSN: 2456-6470
2. Methodology 2.1. Simulation of Quantum Mechanical Systems
This research examines the role of quantum Quantum computers outperform classical systems in
computing in enhancing climate modeling, organizing simulating molecular interactions for climate
its applications into three key domains: quantum technologies, such as carbon capture and energy
mechanical system simulation, optimization storage. The Variational Quantum Eigensolver (VQE)
techniques, and quantum machine learning (QML). accurately determines ground-state energies of
The study adopts a comprehensive approach, complex molecules, capturing multi-electron
synthesizing theoretical progress, empirical findings, dynamics that exceed classical approximations [3].
and advancements in quantum hardware to evaluate For atmospheric modeling, quantum linear systems
the potential of quantum computing in addressing algorithms, such as the Harrow-Hassidim-Lloyd
complex climate challenges. (HHL) algorithm, solve Navier-Stokes equations,
In the first domain, quantum mechanical system while hybrid quantum-classical methods discretize
simulation, quantum computers offer significant spatial domains to handle turbulent flows [2].
advantages in modeling molecular interactions and Quantum phase estimation has been utilized to
chemical processes critical to understanding climate analyze molecular dynamics in materials like metal-
dynamics. Unlike classical computers, which struggle organic frameworks (MOFs) [4]. Furthermore, recent
with the exponential complexity of quantum systems, experiments have explored quantum Monte Carlo
quantum algorithms can efficiently simulate these methods to model photochemical reactions in
processes, enabling more accurate predictions of atmospheric systems [5].
phenomena like greenhouse gas interactions or 2.2. Optimization in Climate Science
atmospheric chemistry. Quantum computing offers powerful tools for
The second domain, optimization, leverages quantum addressing complex optimization challenges in
computing to tackle computationally intensive climate-related applications through techniques like
problems in climate modeling, such as optimizing quantum annealing and variational algorithms, such
energy systems or resource allocation for climate as the Quantum Approximate Optimization
mitigation strategies. Quantum optimization Algorithm (QAOA). These methods excel at solving
algorithms, including quantum annealing and problems that involve large combinatorial spaces,
variational quantum eigensolvers, demonstrate providing potential advantages over classical
potential to outperform classical methods, providing optimization approaches. Several key applications
faster and more efficient solutions to large-scale demonstrate the transformative potential of quantum
optimization challenges. optimization in tackling pressing environmental and
societal challenges.
The third domain, QML, explores the integration of
quantum computing with machine learning to One significant application is in renewable energy
improve climate predictions. QML algorithms can grid management, where quantum annealing
process vast datasets, such as satellite observations or optimizes wind farm layouts and power distribution.
climate model outputs, with enhanced efficiency, By formulating these problems as Quadratic
uncovering patterns that classical machine learning Unconstrained Binary Optimization (QUBO) models,
might miss. This capability is particularly valuable for quantum annealing efficiently identifies
refining long-term climate forecasts and extreme configurations that maximize energy output while
weather event predictions. minimizing infrastructure costs and environmental
impact [6]. This capability is critical for enhancing
The methodology combines insights from theoretical the efficiency and scalability of renewable energy
quantum computing frameworks, experimental systems.
outcomes from current quantum hardware, and
ongoing hardware innovations. By bridging these Another important use case is parameter calibration in
areas, the study highlights how quantum computing climate models. Quantum-enhanced optimization
could transform climate modeling, offering tools to streamlines the tuning of hundreds of parameters,
address pressing environmental issues with significantly reducing computational costs compared
unprecedented precision and speed, while to traditional methods. This efficiency enables more
acknowledging challenges like hardware scalability accurate and timely climate simulations, which are
and error correction that must be overcome for essential for predicting long-term environmental
practical implementation. changes and informing policy decisions [7].

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In disaster preparedness, QUBO-based quantum Additionally, QML enhances time-series forecasting
algorithms address routing problems for emergency with quantum-enhanced Markov Chain Monte Carlo
responses during extreme weather events. These (QMCMC) methods. These approaches improve
algorithms optimize evacuation routes and resource convergence rates for long-term climate predictions,
allocation, ensuring rapid and effective responses to offering more reliable forecasts for variables like
mitigate the impacts of natural disasters [8]. Such temperature and precipitation over extended periods.
applications highlight quantum optimization’s This capability supports better decision-making for
potential to save lives and reduce economic losses in climate policy and resource management [12].
crisis scenarios. Collectively, these QML applications demonstrate
Finally, quantum optimization contributes to significant promise in advancing climate science
sustainable supply chain logistics by minimizing through enhanced computational efficiency and
carbon footprints in renewable energy supply chains. predictive power.
By optimizing transportation routes and production 2.4. Hardware and Algorithmic Considerations
schedules, these algorithms support the transition to Experiments use NISQ devices (<1000 qubits) with
low-carbon economies while maintaining economic error mitigation techniques like zero-noise
viability [9]. Together, these applications underscore extrapolation and probabilistic error cancellation [13].
the role of quantum optimization in advancing Hybrid workflows integrate quantum processors with
climate resilience and sustainability. classical high-performance computing (HPC) systems
2.3. Quantum Machine Learning (QML) via quantum software frameworks [14]. Data loading
Hybrid quantum-classical quantum machine learning into quantum RAM (qRAM) remains a bottleneck,
(QML) approaches provide innovative solutions for with recent tests exploring efficient encoding schemes
addressing data-intensive challenges in climate [10]. Advances in ion-trap and superconducting qubit
science. By combining the computational power of platforms have improved gate fidelities, enabling
quantum systems with classical machine learning more complex climate simulations [15]. Emerging
frameworks, these methods enable efficient topological qubit designs show promise for reducing
processing of complex datasets and enhance error rates in future systems [16].
predictive capabilities. Several applications highlight 3. Results and Discussion
the potential of QML in transforming climate Advancements in quantum computing for climate
modeling and analysis. modeling demonstrate significant progress, though
One key application is subgrid-scale scalability remains a challenge.
parameterization, where quantum neural networks 3.1. Simulation of Quantum Mechanical Systems
(QNNs) utilizing 4–16 qubit circuits model turbulent Quantum simulations are speeding up advancements
processes, such as cloud microphysics and aerosol in climate technology. A 2024 study used the
interactions. These QNNs capture intricate dynamics Variational Quantum Eigensolver (VQE) on a 20-
at scales too fine for traditional climate models, qubit system to study materials called metal-organic
improving the accuracy of simulations critical for frameworks (MOFs) for capturing carbon, improving
understanding atmospheric behavior [10]. their absorption efficiency by 40% compared to
In climate data analysis, quantum kernel methods, traditional methods [4]. Similarly, VQE on a 16-qubit
including quantum support vector machines processor helped design catalysts for pulse
(QSVMs), efficiently process petabyte-scale satellite electrolysis, achieving nearly 100% efficiency in
datasets to detect extreme weather events. By producing hydrogen, which could lower costs by 35%
leveraging quantum-enhanced feature spaces, these [17]. In atmospheric modeling, quantum algorithms
methods identify patterns in vast datasets that solved complex equations called Navier-Stokes
classical approaches struggle to analyze, enabling equations 100 to 1,000 times faster than classical
timely and precise weather event predictions [7]. supercomputers in controlled tests, improving models
Generative modeling also benefits from QML through of how clouds form [2]. Quantum phase estimation
quantum Boltzmann machines and quantum enhanced simulations of chemical reactions in the
generative adversarial networks (qGANs). These stratosphere, leading to better models of ozone
techniques synthesize high-resolution climate depletion [5]. Additionally, quantum Monte Carlo
projections, generating realistic scenarios for future methods provided highly accurate simulations of how
climate conditions. Such models are invaluable for aerosols interact, refining models of how aerosols
planning adaptation strategies and assessing potential affect clouds [16]. However, applying these
climate impacts [11]. techniques to full Earth system models will require
advanced, error-free quantum systems with millions

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of qubits, which are likely not available until after data by 40% [12]. This means more accurate long-
2035 [13]. term forecasts, like predicting rainy or dry seasons, in
3.2. Optimization Outcomes less time. However, to apply QML to massive global
Quantum optimization is bringing real improvements datasets, we need better quantum memory and error
to various fields. The Quantum Annealing correction, which are still being developed [14].
Continuous Optimization (QuAnCO) method boosted These advancements show QML’s potential to
wind farm layout efficiency by 10–15%, increasing revolutionize climate science, but scaling up remains
energy production even with changing weather [6]. a work in progress.
The Quantum Approximate Optimization Algorithm 3.4. Challenges and Limitations
(QAOA) cut the time needed to fine-tune climate Quantum computing holds great promise for climate
models by half, adjusting over 200 settings with modeling, but several challenges must be addressed to
greater precision [7]. Routing algorithms based on make it practical for large-scale applications. These
Quadratic Unconstrained Binary Optimization obstacles involve limitations in current technology,
(QUBO) improved emergency response efficiency by data handling, system integration, scalability, and
20–25% in simulated hurricane scenarios, helping algorithm performance.
deliver faster aid [8]. In solar panel supply chains,
One major issue is coherence times, which refer to
quantum optimization reduced carbon emissions by
how long quantum bits (qubits) can maintain their
18% by streamlining logistics [9]. However, current
quantum state before errors creep in. Current Noisy
Noisy Intermediate-Scale Quantum (NISQ) systems
Intermediate-Scale Quantum (NISQ) devices only
can only handle problems with up to 50 variables,
have coherence times of 1 to 10 milliseconds, which
limiting their use for larger, more complex tasks [13].
is too short for complex climate simulations that
3.3. Quantum Machine Learning Achievements require many interconnected calculations [13].
Quantum machine learning (QML) is making a big Longer coherence times are needed to model systems
impact in handling large datasets for climate science, like global weather or ocean currents accurately.
offering better accuracy and efficiency than
Another challenge is data throughput. Climate models
traditional methods. In a 2024 study, a quantum
often rely on massive terabyte-sized datasets, but
support vector machine (QSVM) running on a 16-
quantum processors struggle to handle this volume.
qubit system achieved 92% accuracy in predicting
Current quantum random access memory (qRAM)
floods using satellite data, performing 10% better
architectures can only manage small inputs, on the
than classical support vector machines [7]. This
scale of kilobytes [10]. This bottleneck makes it
improvement helps provide more reliable flood
difficult to feed large amounts of climate data, such as
warnings, which can save lives and property.
satellite observations, into quantum systems
Quantum neural networks (QNNs) using 8 to 16 efficiently.
qubits have also improved how we model tiny
Integrating quantum and classical high-performance
processes in clouds, like how water droplets form.
computing (HPC) systems also poses problems.
These models enhance the accuracy of simulations for
Coordinating these hybrid setups introduces delays
storm and weather patterns, making predictions about
because quantum and classical processors must work
convective processes more precise [10]. This is
together seamlessly. While new software frameworks
crucial for understanding how clouds affect climate
have cut these delays by 40 to 60%, latency remains a
and weather.
hurdle for real-time applications like weather
Quantum Boltzmann machines have been used to forecasting [14].
create high-resolution climate projections that are
Scalability is a significant barrier. To simulate the
realistic and follow the laws of physics. However,
entire Earth system, including oceans, atmosphere,
training these models takes a lot of computing power,
and land, quantum computers would need fault-
which is a challenge for researchers [11]. Meanwhile,
tolerant systems with over a million qubits. Such
quantum generative adversarial networks (qGANs)
advanced hardware is not expected to be available
have produced lifelike rainfall patterns for regional
until after 2035, delaying full-scale climate modeling
climate models, cutting the computing effort needed
applications [13].
by 30% [18]. This makes it easier and faster to predict
local weather changes. Finally, algorithmic efficiency is a concern. Some
quantum algorithms, like the Harrow-Hassidim-Lloyd
Quantum-enhanced Markov Chain Monte Carlo
(HHL) algorithm, require deep quantum circuits that
(QMCMC) algorithms have sped up seasonal weather
are too complex for NISQ devices to handle reliably.
forecasting by reducing the time needed to sample
As a result, hybrid quantum-classical approaches are

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often used to bridge the gap [2]. Error mitigation [2] Harrow, A. W., Hassidim, A., & Lloyd, S.
techniques help improve the accuracy of quantum (2023). Quantum algorithms for linear systems
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Near-term efforts (2025–2030) will focus on NISQ computational chemistry for carbon capture.
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systems for comprehensive Earth system models by
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2035 [13]. Standardized benchmarking suites for
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Quantum computing holds great potential to
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