Exploring Quantum Randomness

To achieve genuine randomness, conventional computers often draw from external phenomena, such as atmospheric noise or the precise timing of keystrokes. In stark contrast, quantum computers operate on principles of inherent randomness, presenting both challenges and advantages. This randomness, while complex, is fundamental to the power of quantum computing.

Is it excessive to utilize a quantum computer for a simple coin flip? Absolutely! But it's also an exhilarating experience!

Setting Up for Quantum Coin Flips

To get started, you'll need an internet connection and Python. IBM offers access to real quantum computers for free. Follow these steps:

1. Create an account at quantum-computing.ibm.com.
2. Obtain your API token to connect with IBM's quantum systems.

We will utilize the Qiskit library in Python to create a basic quantum circuit. This circuit will feature one qubit, representing our coin, which will be manipulated to exist in a superposition of 0 (heads) and 1 (tails). Much like Schrödinger’s cat, our coin will simultaneously be heads and tails until observed.

The Measurement Process

Upon measuring the qubit, it will randomly resolve to either heads or tails, with an equal probability of ½.

First, install the Qiskit library:

pip install qiskit

Next, we will define our quantum circuit:

# Code to create a quantum circuit with one qubit

In this example, we create a quantum circuit featuring one qubit (our coin) and a classical bit to store the measurement outcome. We apply the Hadamard gate to put the coin into a superposition of both heads and tails. Finally, we measure the qubit to store the result in the classical bit.

Executing the Quantum Circuit

To run the circuit on IBM's quantum computers, use the following code:

# Code to execute the quantum circuit on IBM's quantum computer

This code sets up a secure connection to the IBM Quantum API using your API key. It specifies that we want to run our circuit on the "ibmq_armonk" quantum computer. The "shots" parameter indicates that we wish to perform the coin flip just once. After executing, the code retrieves and displays the result of the coin flip.

The Outcome of Our Experiment

Upon running our code on "ibmq_armonk," the IBM Quantum platform showcases various available quantum computers, detailing their qubit capacity and more. The completion time for our coin flip may vary depending on the quantum computer's current workload.

Reflecting on the Experience

Before moving on to other tasks, it’s crucial to pause and reflect on what we've just accomplished. Running a few lines of Python code, we've engaged with astonishing technology that operates at temperatures near absolute zero (-273.15 °C or -459.67 °F), far colder than even outer space.

By sending instructions to manipulate an isolated quantum system, we effectively performed a truly random coin flip. If that doesn’t send shivers down your spine, I don’t know what will!

For any questions or comments, feel free to connect with me on LinkedIn. Note that I have no affiliation with IBM. If you enjoyed this post, consider subscribing to my newsletter at marcelmoos.com/newsletter.