Superposition

In superposition, quantum particles represent a combination of all possible states until they are observed. To illustrate the distinction between binary representation and superposition, consider the analogy of a coin. Classical bits resemble the "flip of a coin," yielding either heads or tails. In contrast, superposition allows for the simultaneous observation of heads, tails, and every possible state in between.

Entanglement

Entanglement describes the phenomenon where quantum particles can influence each other's measurement outcomes. When qubits become entangled, they form a single interconnected system, allowing measurements of one qubit to inform about the others. This interconnectedness, combined with the addition of more qubits, enables quantum computers to process information at an exponentially faster rate, tackling more complex challenges.

Quantum Interference

Quantum interference pertains to the behavior of qubits, which, due to superposition, affects the probability of their outcomes collapsing in specific ways. Quantum computers are designed to minimize this interference to achieve the most accurate results. For instance, Microsoft utilizes topological qubits, which are stabilized by modifying their structure and surrounding them with chemical compounds to shield them from external disturbances.

Which is Better: Classical or Quantum?

Quantum computers, leveraging superposition and entanglement, can perform certain tasks much more swiftly and with significantly less energy than classical computers. The field of quantum computing began in the 1980s, revealing that quantum algorithms could solve specific computational problems more effectively than traditional algorithms.

The potential applications of quantum computing are vast, spanning finance, military intelligence, medical research, and beyond. This allure has attracted major technology firms like IBM, Microsoft, and Google to invest in the advancement of quantum computing.

While classical computers are well-suited for everyday tasks, quantum computers excel in simulations and data analysis, as seen in chemical and pharmaceutical research. However, they require extremely low temperatures for stability and are considerably more complex and costly to build. Although quantum computers may not enhance the performance of software like Microsoft Word, they can quickly tackle more intricate tasks. For example, Google is developing a quantum computer that could expedite machine learning processes or contribute to the creation of more energy-efficient batteries.

The applications of quantum computing are diverse, including secure data transmission, cancer research, drug development, and military enhancements like improved radar systems. Additionally, quantum computing could play a role in environmental conservation, such as utilizing chemical sensors to maintain clean water.

Developments So Far

Google is investing heavily in its goal to develop a quantum computer by 2029, establishing a campus in California known as Google AI to further this aim. This commitment is not surprising, given its longstanding investment in the technology. Other companies, including Honeywell International and IBM, are also making significant strides, with IBM anticipating major breakthroughs in the coming years.

Despite these advancements, the commercial viability of quantum computers remains elusive. Some companies have developed personal, albeit costly, quantum computers. Meanwhile, firms like JPMorgan Chase and Visa are exploring quantum technology's potential. Google may eventually offer a cloud-based quantum computing service.

Companies can access quantum technologies without needing to build their own quantum computers. IBM, for instance, aims to have a 1,000-qubit quantum computer operational by 2023 and currently allows access to its machines through its Quantum Network, which includes research institutions and universities. In contrast, Microsoft’s Azure Quantum platform provides businesses access to quantum resources, while Google has yet to offer public access to its quantum computers.

Final Thoughts

Quantum computing fundamentally differs from traditional computing in both function and application. The inclusion of qubits enables quantum computers to perform complex tasks more rapidly than classical computers. This opens up numerous possibilities in fields like simulation and medicine. Nevertheless, the commercial development of quantum computers has not yet materialized, indicating that widespread availability may still be some time away.