Quantum Computing: What It Is & What It Can Do

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the nature and capabilities of quantum computers, including their physical appearance, potential speed compared to supercomputers, and applications beyond cryptography, such as genetic algorithms.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant asks for a brief explanation of what a quantum computer is and its appearance, as well as its speed relative to supercomputers.
  • Another participant suggests reading a resource from Caltech for a better understanding of quantum computing.
  • A participant expresses appreciation for the suggested reading.
  • One participant asserts that quantum computers cannot be as fast as current supercomputers and describes their physical form as different from conventional computers, noting that only basic experimental models exist with a limited number of qubits.
  • A later reply mentions that the speed of quantum computers may depend on polynomial time, implying a conditional relationship.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the speed of quantum computers compared to supercomputers, with at least one participant asserting that they cannot match current supercomputers, while another hints at conditions that may affect this comparison.

Contextual Notes

The discussion includes assumptions about the capabilities of quantum computers and their current state of development, which may not be fully resolved.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in quantum computing, its theoretical foundations, and potential applications in various fields, including cryptography and genetic algorithms.

Spammers
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What is a quantum computer in short ? what does it look like ?
Can it be as fast as a present super computer ?

Another, beside crypto, what can quantum algorithms do ? Can they do something good like genetic algorithms ? :redface:
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Read this info from caltech:
http://www.cs.caltech.edu/~westside/quantum-intro.html

you should get a good understanding of what it's all about
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Thanks, exequor. That was a good read.
 
Spammers said:
Can it be as fast as a present super computer ?

Your question should be just the opposite. And the answer is NO.

Spammers said:
what does it look like ?
Nothing like what most people have in mind, as far as a computer. Oh and only the most elementary experimental ones that contain around 4 qubits, maybe more, have been produced. As far as I know.
 
It depends on polynomial time.
 

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