Quantum What Now?
There are 3 types of people in this world:
Those who understand quantum computing
Those who do not understand quantum computing
And those who both simultaneously do and do not understand quantum computing
Recently I have been fortunate to get a glimpse at this fascinating world of Quantum Computing through a marketing consultancy project with Cyxtera Technologies & Oxford Quantum Circuits. A key milestone was this a PR and Opinion Piece surrounding Quantum Computing: Oxford Quantum Circuits Partners with Cyxtera to Improve Accessibility to Quantum Computers & Accelerating the accessibility of quantum computing via colocation data centers - DCD (datacenterdynamics.com)
However, like most of us who haven’t studied Quantum Mechanics, you probably have a lot of questions. After extensive research on the topic, I found I had a unique layperson’s perspective on the topic and decided to share this for someone else who may be facing a similar problem.
I’ve summarized this into the top 5 initial questions one might have.
Before we dive into those – If you only have time for 1 source of info, watch this video: Quantum Computing Expert Explains One Concept in 5 Levels of Difficulty | WIRED…(💞Girl crush moment Talia Gershon 💞)
…but also read my article….👨🔬
Video from IBM explaining Quantum computing at different education levels from child to expert
So, what is quantum computing? Simply put, quantum computing is a type of computing that uses the principles of quantum mechanics to perform operations on data. Unlike classical computers that use bits (you know the 0’s or 1’s), quantum computers use qubits that can be in multiple states at the same time. This allows quantum computers to perform certain types of calculations much faster than classical computers.
To help you visualize this, I liked using the walking example (when explaining this to my non-techy partner) imagine you are walking, right foot left foot right foot left foot, then imagine you are jumping forward with both feet together 💥 QUANTUM (ahem never claimed to be the expect). This was from ChatGPT : Imagine you have a traditional light switch that can be turned on or off. This is like a bit in a classical computer. Now, imagine you have a dimmer switch that can be set to any level between off and on. This is like a qubit in a quantum computer. 💡
But how does quantum computing work? Quantum computing works by using the principles of quantum mechanics, such as superposition and entanglement, to perform operations on qubits. Superposition allows a qubit to be in multiple states at the same time, while entanglement allows two or more qubits to be linked in such a way that the state of one qubit affects the state of the other qubits.
In 2019 Google announced they achieved quantum supremacy, which means they were able to perform a 3.20 minute calculation on a quantum computer that would have taken a classical computer 10,000 years to solve. 🚀
Now, are there any advantages of quantum computing over classical computing? The main advantage of quantum computing over classical computing is speed. For example, quantum computers are very good at factoring large numbers, which is important for encryption and security. 🔑
Another advantage of quantum computing is that it can handle large amounts of data at the same time. This is because qubits can be in multiple states at the same time, which allows for parallel processing.
On the other hand, one of the biggest challenges in quantum computing is dealing with errors. Qubits are very fragile and can easily be affected by external factors such as temperature and electromagnetic radiation. To overcome this, quantum computers use error correction techniques that require additional qubits and resources.
Another challenge is the difficulty of programming and controlling quantum computers.
Quantum mechanics is a very complex and counterintuitive field, and programming a quantum computer requires a deep understanding of these concepts. Also maintaining temperatures of Absolut Zero (-273.15 °C to us non-technical people) is no joke…Think Superman’s Fortress of Solitude or the coldest place on earth (a mere -94°C)….except WAY colder.
Finally, what are some real-world applications of quantum computing? There are many potential applications of quantum computing, from improving drug discovery to optimizing logistics and supply chain management. IBM partnered with Delta in 2020 to “explore the potential capabilities of quantum computing to transform experiences for customers and employees”.
Quantum computing also has the potential to revolutionize cryptography and security sometimes not for good. For example, quantum computers could be used to break many of the encryption schemes currently used to secure our data, which is why there is significant investment going into developing new encryption techniques that are resistant to quantum attacks. NIST, for example, recently announced the winners from its 6 year competition for “cryptographers to devise and then vet encryption methods that could resist an attack from a future quantum computer”.
In conclusion, quantum computing is a fascinating field with many potential applications. While there are still many challenges and limitations to overcome, the rapid pace of development and innovation in this field is truly exciting. Who knows what we'll be able to accomplish in the future with quantum computing! 🌌💻
Some people, links, reports if this topic peeks your interest:
· UK Quantum Institute – A newly launched consortium of major players in the UK Quantum industry to help the government and other bodies in various aspects such as policy and strategy, international cooperation and trade and supply chain.
· Oxford Quantum Circuits – Europe’s leading quantum computing company, Pioneers in bringing Quantum computing to customers.
· Dr Llana Wisby LinkedIn Profile - CEO Oxford Quantum Circuits #WomeninTech
· IBM The Quantum Decade Report - demonstrates how companies can start getting Quantum ready
· How is UAE investing in Quantum?
#QuantumComputing #ThoughtLeader
Sources:
Cover image Photo by Manuel on Unsplash
Joke sourced: UpJoke.Com
Matrix code image: Pngtree.com
