Originally published on YallaDeals on July 30, 2023. Republished with permission.
Quantum computing, an emerging branch of technology, has the potential to transform the way we process information. Unlike traditional computing, which uses binary bits, quantum computing uses the laws of quantum mechanics to accomplish complicated calculations at extraordinary speeds. In this post, we will look at the fundamental principles of quantum computing and how they vary from traditional computing.
1. Quantum Bits (Qubits):
The concept of qubits, the quantum analogue of classical bits, is central to quantum computing. Because of the principle of superposition, qubits can exist in several states at the same time, whereas traditional bits can only represent a 0 or a 1. This characteristic enables qubits to execute parallel computations, allowing quantum computers to process massive volumes of data at the same time.
2. Superposition:
Superposition is a fundamental quantum physics principle that permits qubits to exist in several states at the same time. A bit in a classical system can be either 0 or 1, whereas in a quantum system, a qubit can be either 0 or 1, or both 0 and 1. This property exponentially improves quantum computers’ computing capability, allowing them to solve complicated problems considerably faster than classical computers.
3. Entanglement:
Entanglement is a rare quantum phenomena in which the states of two or more qubits become interdependent. When two qubits become entangled, the state of one directly influences the state of the other, regardless of how far apart they are. This characteristic enables quantum computers to execute computations that are nearly impossible for classical computers to perform.
4. Quantum Gates and Circuits:
Quantum gates, which control the states of qubits to conduct specified calculations, are the building blocks of quantum circuits. Based on quantum mechanics concepts, these gates can execute operations such as superposition, entanglement, and controlled processes. Quantum algorithms are built with quantum gates, allowing quantum computers to solve difficult problems more efficiently than traditional algorithms.
5. Quantum Decoherence and Error Correction:
Due to external interference, quantum computing confronts difficulties in sustaining the fragile quantum states of qubits, a process known as quantum decoherence. To overcome this issue and ensure the correctness and dependability of quantum computing, researchers are actively working on quantum error correction algorithms.
Quantum Computing’s Potential Applications:
The tremendous processing capacity of quantum computing has the potential to revolutionise a variety of industries, including:
1. Cryptography: Because quantum computers can break certain encryption algorithms that protect sensitive data, quantum-resistant cryptographic techniques are required.
2. Drug Discovery: Quantum computing can greatly expedite molecular interaction simulation, resulting in faster drug discovery and development.
3. Problems of Optimisation: Quantum computers excel in solving complicated optimisation problems such as route planning, resource allocation, and supply chain management.
4. Machine Learning: Quantum machine learning techniques have the potential to improve pattern detection and data processing, allowing for more advanced AI systems.
References:
2. https://www.investopedia.com/terms/q/quantum-computing.asp
