Quantum Computing — An Analysis and Explanation
INTRODUCTION
Imagine that you’re in a casino about to play a game on one of the computers, just like solitaire or chess, except this is a coin game and starts with a coin that shows ‘heads’. The computer plays first, it can choose to flip the coin or not and you will not be able to see the outcome. Similarly, next, you can do the same where the system won’t know about your choice. Finally, after a few rounds, the coin is revealed. If it’s ‘heads’ the computer wins otherwise, you do. Naturally, by the rules of probability, you have a 50 percent chance of winning or losing.
But what if you were to do this on a quantum computer? What is a quantum computer? What is quantum physics?
What is Quantum Physics?
Quantum physics, also known as quantum theory or quantum mechanics, explains the phenomena that occurs at the subatomic level; it is the foundational basis for present-day material science. Quantum theory along with general relativity are broad and important fields of Physics that offer a new way of looking at the world.
Definition
Given by Niels Bohr, Max Planck, and somewhat Albert Einstein(represented light as quanta), it is said to be a physics theory based on the division of radiant energy into finite quanta and used in a variety of processes requiring energy transfer or transformation on an atomic or molecular scale.
The theory hence gave rise to Heisenberg’s uncertainty principle.
Heisenberg’s uncertainty principle
Given by German physicist Werner Heisenberg in 1927, the uncertainty principle states it is impossible to know both the position and speed of a particle, such as a photon or an electron, with perfect accuracy; the more we nail down the particle’s position, the less we know about its speed and vice versa.
Quantum Theory’s Influence and Applications
After the establishment of the theory in the previous century, many researchers have worked and developed a new iteration of the quantum hypothesis. Some of the popular ones include Niel Bohr’s Copenhagen interpretation and the many-worlds or multiverse theory. Over thirty years or more, there have been different interpretations of the theory as well.
In any case, today the principles of quantum theory are being applied in many fields. More significantly, most modern technology is based on the quantum theory where quantum effects are significant.
Some of the other applications of the quantum theory are found in -
- Quantum optics
- Quantum computing
- Light-emitting diodes
- Superconducting magnets
- Optical amplifiers and lasers
- Transistors
- Semiconductors
- Magnetic resonance imaging
- Electron microscopy and more.
What is Quantum Computing?
Quantum computing is an area of computer science that uses the principles of quantum theory. Quantum computing uses subatomic particles, such as electrons or photons.
Theoretically, linked qubits can “exploit the interference between their wave-like quantum states to perform calculations that might otherwise take millions of years.”
Superposition is the property that allows two different states to define a system. It is not just one or another, but it can be both at a given time. In classic computing, computers work through bits that have a value of either ‘1’ or ‘0’. Quantum computing uses an equivalent called ‘qubits,’ which can have two values at one given time.
Quantum entanglement describes the phenomenon where quantum particles stay connected. No matter the distance, quantum particles maintain a connection with one another. What affects one particle can affect another (This has also opened the gates to research on better internet circuits without electricity).
These quantum properties translated to computing technology provide promising prospects. These are especially useful when exploring possibilities or going through massive amounts of data.
This is an entirely different way of computing from what we use today. Quantum computing, although a nascent technology, can lead to great leaps in innovation.
Classical computers employ a stream of electrical impulses (1 and 0) in a binary manner to encode information in bits. This restricts their processing ability, compared to quantum computing.
So a quantum computer is not a more powerful version of a regular computer just like a light bulb is not a more powerful candle. You cannot build a light bulb by building better candles because it’s a completely different technology based on deeper scientific concepts and understanding.
Difference between classical and quantum computing
Quantum computers have a more basic structure than classical computers. They have no memory or processor. All a quantum computer uses is a set of superconducting qubits.
Quantum computers and classical computers process information differently. A quantum computer uses qubits to run multidimensional quantum algorithms. Their processing power increases exponentially as qubits are added. A classical processor uses bits to operate various programs. Their power increases linearly as more bits are added. Classical computers have much less computing power.
Classical computers are best for everyday tasks and have low error rates. Quantum computers are ideal for a higher level of task, e.g., running simulations, analyzing data (such as for chemical or drug trials), and creating energy-efficient batteries. They can also have high error rates.
Classical computers don’t need extra-special care. They may use a basic internal fan to keep from overheating. Quantum processors need to be protected from the slightest vibrations and must be kept extremely cold. Super-cooled superfluids must be used for that purpose.
Quantum computers are more expensive and difficult to build than classical computers. In 2019, Google proved that a quantum computer can solve a problem in minutes, while it would take a classical computer 10,000 years.
Therefore,
in the game of heads and tails, a quantum computer will win almost every game. This is all because it does not work with bits i.e. 0 or 1. A quantum bit or qubit is more fluid or nonbinary in nature. It can exist in a superposition or a combination of 0 and 1, with the probability of both being different. Eg- 20–80, 60–40, etc, the possibilities are endless. The key idea is to give up the precise value of 0 and 1 and allow for some uncertainty.
The quantum computer creates a fluid combination of heads and tails so that no matter what the player chooses, the superposition remains intact, but in its final move, it can unmix the 0 and 1s perfectly recovering heads i.e. how it started so that the computer wins every time.
We don’t experience this fluid quantum reality in everyday life. So it’s okay for one to be confused and question its practical applications.
PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS
Manufacturing and Industrial Design
Manufacturing requires efficient processes and designs to produce high-quality products.
The design process can be incredibly tedious. Industrial designers need to consider multiple variables to craft a working product. This is especially important in machinery, transportation, and electronics.
For example, designers often need several drafts when manufacturing a high-speed jet. This process ensures that they have the most efficient wing design for high speeds. It also applies to other key parts of the machine.
Quantum computing can help designers fish through the different possibilities faster. This technology can help them save time and create better designs for a better product.
It can also help manufacturers troubleshoot better. They can give a quantum computer their data on machine failure, and it can help figure out the problem areas.
Logistics
Logistics is often a time and location-sensitive industry. Thus, it would benefit a lot from optimizing processes. There are a lot of factors to consider when transporting something from one place to another. You have supply chains, vehicle availability, traffic, and customer expectations, among others.
Quantum computing can help companies figure out the best routes for every shipment. This technology also considers real-life factors, such as weather and traffic.
Adopting quantum technology can change the game and fulfill customer standards for logistics. DHL and other logistics companies are already eyeing it as a trend with great potential.
Finance
Financial procedures often rely on a lot of complex mathematical processes. Analysts deal with many variables to predict possible outcomes of the market. Major events can require fast-paced responses that classic computers struggle to do.
Quantum computing can help make more accurate simulations and predictions of market activity. They are also a lot better at Monte Carlo simulations than traditional methods.
In finance, a Monte Carlo simulation allows analysts to look at many possible outcomes from an array of variables. These results help us understand the risks and possibilities, especially in financial forecasting. Quantum tech reduces the time and effort required for such operations.
Banking and financial giants recognize the possible applications of this emerging tech. JP Morgan Chase and Wells Fargo have already invested in quantum computing, powering the future of finance.
Weather Forecasting
Currently, the process of analysing weather conditions by traditional computers can sometimes take longer than the weather itself does to change. But a quantum computer’s ability to crunch vast amounts of data, in a short period, could indeed lead to enhancing weather system modelling allowing scientists to predict the changing weather patterns in no time and with excellent accuracy — something which can be essential for the current time when the world is going under a climate change.
Weather forecasting includes several variables to consider, such as air pressure, temperature and air density, which makes it difficult for it to be predicted accurately. Application of quantum machine learning can help in improving pattern recognition, which, in turn, will make it easier for scientists to predict extreme weather events and potentially save thousands of lives a year. With quantum computers, meteorologists will also be able to generate and analyse more detailed climate models, which will provide greater insight into climate change and ways to mitigate it.
Chemical Engineering
Chemical engineering deals with the manipulation of atoms and molecules. The field itself involves the application of quantum principles.
It is also a widely-encompassing field. Chemical engineering has applications in manufacturing, healthcare, construction, food processing, electronics, etc.
With such a wide variety of chemical configurations available, it can take time to find the right one. Quantum computing can help speed up these processes.
This application is beneficial in pharmaceuticals and vaccine development. Our experience with the COVID-19 pandemic has emphasized the need for urgent solutions.
Artificial Intelligence
Artificial intelligence is another emergent technology already making waves in the mainstream. It involves “teaching” machines vast amounts of knowledge to perform various tasks.
AI already has many applications in various fields. These include healthcare, e-commerce, education, finance, security, and media, among others.
Quantum computing can be a significant help in AI efforts. AI development requires the processing of vast amounts of data for machine learning. This helps the AI recognize patterns and make decisions better.
Although classic computing is doing its job, AI would benefit a lot from quantum tech. Faster processing can lead to better AI performance. Eventually, this can result in more human-like responses from AI.
FUTURISTIC APPROACH
As explained, Quantum computing offers the possibility of breakthroughs across sectors. Investors also see these possibilities: Funding of start-ups focused on quantum technologies more than doubled to $1.4 billion in 2021 from 2020. Quantum computing now has the potential to capture nearly $700 billion in value as early as 2035, with that market estimated to exceed $90 billion annually by 2040.
The first developments in Quantum Computing that we are expected to see is likely to mirror those that occurred as classical computers moved from being lab toys or something only the largest corporations could afford in the latter half of the 20th century.
This is likely to follow the format of the transition from mainframes (filling entire buildings) to minicomputers (filling rooms) and eventually to microcomputers that could live on our desks.
This democratization of access to quantum power will lead to new use cases as businesses will be able to put it to the test against their own specific sets of challenges.
Problems where quantum computers will potentially be put to use include monitoring and predicting traffic flow across complex urban environments or even processing the enormous amounts of data necessary for artificial intelligence and machine learning. If one-day humans can model a system as complex as a biological brain — paving the way for true AI — it almost certainly won’t be by using classical computing.
CHALLENGES and PROSPECTS
Why aren’t more industries using quantum computing if it’s so great? Using quantum computing nowadays comes with a few difficulties.
The quantum computational complexity process is the first problem. Engineering and programming quantum computers are tough tasks. Finding qualified employees to run and maintain the required machinery becomes difficult as a result.
Quantum computers currently also need secure surroundings to function. However, they frequently make errors because superposition and entanglement are very difficult to maintain. Only large organizations have them thus far since they are very expensive to maintain.
There’s also a critical shortage of people with the skills to develop and work with quantum computers. As Gasman puts it, “what you want is someone who is a computer scientist, and a physicist, and an expert on pharmaceuticals or finance — the specifics of the disciplines are so different that getting people to talk to each other is quite difficult!”
The field of quantum computing is still in its infancy. Although many business executives anticipate adopting it in the future, it is not currently the norm. It does have significant potential. But, it still needs further development to get into the mainstream.
CONCLUSION
Quantum computing is already with us in a limited form. But the next five to 10 years may see it leap into the mainstream in the same way that classical computers moved from labs and large corporations to businesses of all sizes, as well as homes, in the 1970s and 1980s.
However, as well as big leaps forward in what we can do with computers, they also require us to face up to a new set of problems, specifically around the threats they pose to security and encryption. And some people think that quantum computers may never be useful at all due to their complexity and the limited amount of tasks at which they are superior to classical computer technology.
The exciting thing for me is the breakthroughs that are likely to happen. To mix metaphors, the world is quantum computing’s oyster. There are lots of good reasons to be in classical computing, but if you’re looking for massive breakthroughs — it’s not going to happen. That’s the excitement of quantum computing.
By — Arshiya Sharma
