Quantum computing is a fascinating and rapidly evolving field. Here are three interesting facts about it:
Quantum Superposition and Parallelism
One of the most intriguing aspects of quantum computing is the principle of quantum superposition. Unlike classical bits, which are either 0 or 1, quantum bits (qubits) can exist in multiple states simultaneously due to superposition. This allows quantum computers to process a vast number of possibilities at once. Coupled with another quantum property called entanglement, this enables quantum computers to perform certain calculations much more efficiently than classical computers, especially in fields like cryptography, material science, and complex system simulation.
Quantum Supremacy
This is a term used to describe the point at which a quantum computer can solve a problem that a classical computer cannot solve in a feasible amount of time. In 2019, Google claimed to have achieved quantum supremacy with their 53-qubit processor named Sycamore. They reported that Sycamore completed a specific computation in 200 seconds, which they claimed would take the world’s most powerful supercomputer at the time, Summit, approximately 10,000 years to complete.
Quantum Computers and Temperature
Quantum computers operate in extremely controlled environments, often requiring temperatures colder than those found in deep space. This is necessary because quantum states are very delicate and can be easily disturbed by external influences like heat and electromagnetic waves. Superconducting quantum computers, for example, often operate close to absolute zero (-273.15°C or -459.67°F), which is necessary to maintain the coherence of the qubits for as long as possible. This requirement for extreme cooling presents one of the significant engineering challenges in the development of quantum computers.