Learn what Quantum Computing is, various applications, benefits of Quantum Computing, and How Quantum Computers work.
What is Quantum Computing?
Quantum computing is a newly emerged concept in the field of computers. This technology aims to speed up technical problem solving through quantum mechanics. It uses quantum mechanics to build hardware that can solve otherwise complex and time-consuming issues for conventional computers. Computers that are based on quantum computing are called quantum computers.
How do Quantum Computers work?
Quantum computers can solve complex problems at exponentially higher rates when compared to classical computers. These computers can solve problems that contain multiple variables forming complex equations with each other. Classical computers and even supercomputers can crash if such complex tasks are assigned to them because they are designed to do sequential work.
It is not the case with quantum computers as they use superposition and entanglement – two basic concepts of quantum mechanics –
1. Superposition
Every particle in this universe has a possibility of existing in multiple states. These various states can be simultaneous, too, and there are chances that these various states align to create a superposition. Quantum computers can align these states and predict this state of superposition. Quantum mechanics deals with atomic and subatomic particles. An analysis of their superposition can help in predicting many biological molecules.
2. Entanglement
In quantum mechanics, the qubit is the basic unit of information. These qubits can potentially interact with each other to create a mutual connection. Such connections can help predict the behaviour of one particle based on the other particle. Entanglement is used in various disciplines for predictions and optimization.
Quantum computers use superposition and entanglement to run tasks and get the most accurate solution. Classical computers will take thousands of years to complete these calculations, but quantum computers create mathematical algorithms through entanglement and solve these problems faster. Due to superposition, a quantum computer can take two different paths simultaneously, unlike conventional computers that take one path at a time.
In this way, taking multiple paths enables the quantum computer to solve probability problems, optimize better results, improve traffic flow, predict financial outputs, and simulate biological molecules.
A quantum computer has three parts; a qubit area to collect and store information, an information transfer channel and a classical computer to run the program.
Quantum computing is taking considerable strides every year to build a faster and more efficient computing mechanism. However, the practical usage of this technique is still hypothetical in many fields.
Applications of Quantum Computing
Many companies from all over the world are investing in quantum computing. Microsoft, Intel, Alibaba, HP, Volkswagen, Airbus, Google, IBM, JPMorgan Chase, and many more global companies insist on adapting quantum computing to be in a better state both financially and technically. The reason is that quantum computing has many applications in almost every field. Here we are discussing some of the most discussed areas that are looking into quantum computing:
1. Drug Designing
Quantum computing can simulate structures of biological molecules that would help in a better understanding of its activity and molecular interaction. Classical computers design the drugs using trial and error methods. Quantum computers, on the other hand, can analyze all the pathways and biological properties to create the best medicine.
2. Financial Modelling
Companies have started to use quantum computing to predict the best financial pathways to achieve their objectives, and it enables them to get the best outputs against lesser investments quickly.
3. Weather Prediction and Climate Change
Researchers are looking into quantum computing to see if it can improve the weather prediction results as it can align all the possibilities. Climate change can also be predicted if an efficient weather prediction system is developed in the future; it will surely help in achieving the mutual sustainable development goals among the global representatives.
4. Optimization
Optimization is about finding the best. Volkswagen is looking into quantum computing to optimize their pilot programs, travel management, and salesman optimization. Optimization is the biggest strength of quantum computing as it helps the companies to manage the traffic better and derive the best outputs within a short period.
5. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
Google’s Sundar Pichai said that Artificial intelligence and quantum computing would mutually benefit each other; the growth would flourish the development of the other. Efficient optimization and the faster speed of quantum computers are expected to help machine learning develop.
6. Cyber-security
With the advancements in quantum computing, cyber-security experts are worried about data transfer encryption. The ability of these computers to predict thousands of combinations within seconds can pose a risk to government security codes. If these codes get cracked using quantum computing, much confidential information would be publicized, which is risky.
Benefits of Quantum Computing
Researchers believe that there is a possibility of classical computers getting replaced with quantum computers due to the benefits listed below –
1. Faster than conventional computers
The ability of quantum computers to analyze data in seconds and predict possibilities exponentially attracts companies to invest in them even after being costly.
2. Aids in solving complex problems
Supercomputers are a choice after classical computers to solve complex equations. There is a possibility that quantum computers will replace supercomputers as they are adapted to analyze various variables simultaneously.
3. Help in stimulating models
Models create a better understanding of the problem, and quantum computing uses a similar technique. It creates models that make decisions regarding selection and management more effortless.
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