Does anyone know about Quantum Computing?

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the basic concepts and potential of quantum computing, exploring its theoretical foundations, differences from classical computing, and implications for future technology. Participants express varying levels of understanding and interest in the field.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant notes that quantum computing involves representing binary information with variable states, suggesting a complexity beyond traditional binary systems.
  • Another participant claims that quantum computers can represent not just 0 and 1, but also a third state, indicating a need for more advanced computational models.
  • A participant mentions that quantum computing is still in its infancy, highlighting significant obstacles that remain to be overcome.
  • There is a reference to the theoretical power of quantum computers, particularly in terms of qubits and their ability to process information differently than classical bits.
  • One participant explains that qubits can exist in superpositions and can be entangled, which allows for simultaneous processing of multiple states, potentially leading to faster solutions for certain problems.
  • The Deutsch-Jozsa algorithm is mentioned as an example of a quantum algorithm that can outperform classical algorithms under specific conditions.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying levels of understanding and interest, with some agreeing on the theoretical advantages of quantum computing while others emphasize the challenges and current limitations. No consensus is reached on the practical applications or the current state of the technology.

Contextual Notes

Participants reference theoretical concepts and potential applications without resolving the complexities involved in quantum computing. There is an acknowledgment of the need for further exploration and understanding of the subject.

budder8819
Messages
4
Reaction score
0
Just wondering if anyone on this forum has an extensive knowledge that they would like to share. I've heard that the basic concept in quantum computing has something to do with representing binary information with a variable 1 or 0. Something like that. I was trying to follow but it was very hard. I'm undergraduate electrical engineer and am trying to explore some fields I'd like to go into.
Thanks for sharing
 
Physics news on Phys.org
budder8819 said:
Just wondering if anyone on this forum has an extensive knowledge that they would like to share. I've heard that the basic concept in quantum computing has something to do with representing binary information with a variable 1 or 0. Something like that. I was trying to follow but it was very hard. I'm undergraduate electrical engineer and am trying to explore some fields I'd like to go into.
Thanks for sharing

Yes, quantum computers have 0, 1 AND 01. Not two they have three. Needs Turing 3 state and 4 color MACHINE then do all things. NOT quantum computer in shop only labaratary.
 
not extensive...barely superficial...

Well if you want to get in on the ground floor of a new technology this is one to consider as its in its infancy...huge obstacles to overcome...

check http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quantum_computing

if you haven't read it already.

Quantum computers are theoretically more power than classical computers...quantum information theorists talk in terms of qubits, quantum bits. Question might be resolved in N^1/2 instead of N questions...potentially big advances in spped/power...

Try reading Charles Seife, DECODING THE UNIVERSE, Chapter 7, Quantum Information for the theory basics. One area that has shown theoretical promise is factoring numbers...the basis for cryptography...
As far I know not much practical has been accomplished yet, but the knowledge about the quantum world has been substantial.
 
An idealized classical computer deals with arrays of bits. A single bit is an object with two states. An array of states just means we're working with an ordered list of bits. If you have n bits of storage, then your system can be in any of 2^n states.

In a quantum computer, things are a bit different. Individual qubits don't have a definite value, only an amplitude for eahc possible value. Even more intriguing is that qubits can be entangled. This means that we don't just assign each qubit its own amplitude, but we assign an amplitude to each possible state of the entire array. Measuring the array collapses the quantum state to a classical state.

On the surface, it seems like it might not benefit you. With an n-qubit array, you can store 2^n states, but as soon as you measure it, your state is lost. But there are little tricks you can use to speed things up. Functions which act on quantum registers are essentially able to apply the function to every possible argument simultaneously. For certain problems, if you set up the right entangled state, run the right function, and then "undo" the entangling, you can obtain the answer in fewer steps than any classical algorithm.

The simplest such algorithm is called the Deutsch-Jozsa algorithm.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
3K
  • · Replies 14 ·
Replies
14
Views
3K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
7K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
2K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
4K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K
  • · Replies 17 ·
Replies
17
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 29 ·
Replies
29
Views
4K