Quantum Computing: How Fast Could It Go?

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SUMMARY

Quantum computers are hypothesized to achieve unprecedented speeds for specific problem types, leveraging principles such as superposition and parallel computing. Unlike classical computers, which operate sequentially, quantum computers utilize qubits, with 500 qubits representing a computational basis too large for classical systems to handle. This discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding the unique capabilities of quantum computing rather than merely comparing speeds to classical systems. For further insights, refer to resources like the Qubit tutorial on quantum computing.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of qubits and their role in quantum computing
  • Familiarity with classical computing principles
  • Knowledge of superposition and parallel computing concepts
  • Basic grasp of computational complexity and data storage limits
NEXT STEPS
  • Explore the implications of 500 qubits in quantum computing
  • Study the differences between quantum and classical computing architectures
  • Investigate applications of quantum computing in solving complex problems
  • Learn about quantum algorithms that leverage superposition for efficiency
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for computer scientists, quantum computing researchers, and technology enthusiasts interested in the future capabilities of quantum systems and their applications in various fields.

Big-Daddy
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How fast, exactly, is it hypothesized that quantum computers could feasibly reach? If an operation takes 1 second on an average modern-day computer, how long will it take a quantum computer, using an upper-bound idea for the speed these machines could one day reach?
 
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Quantum computers excel at certain problems. They are very different than classical sequential computations so saying how "fast" they will be in the future is kind of meaningless. Your best bet is to understand what they do and how they differ from classical computers.

http://www.qubit.org/tutorials/13-about-quantum-computing/tutorials/25-quantum-computing.html

The following quote from wikipedia is one I like:
"However, the computational basis of 500 qubits, for example, would already be too large to be represented on a classical computer because it would require 2^500 complex values (2^501 bits) to be stored.[10] (For comparison, a terabyte of digital information is only 2^40 bits.)"

For an extreme but entertaining view, check out Seth Lloyd.
 
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I think that they excel at parallel computing, due to exploiting superposition.
 

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