Quantum computing is still considered science fiction, but work in the field is very advanced, and breakthroughs are occurring annually. We delve into the world of quantum computing and highlight why it is a space to which we should be paying attention.

 

Without a doubt and in the world of technology, innovation is a constant. Although we, as consumers, are just about wrapping our collective heads around artificial intelligence, AI, experts are already looking beyond AI.

Quantum computing is a ground-breaking development that promises to reshape the future of computing and solve complex problems previously deemed unsolvable. This article is a brief primer on quantum computing. We will outline what it is, how it works, and why it’s an important development that holds immense potential.

 

What is Quantum Computing

At its core, quantum computing leverages the principles of quantum mechanics to process information in a radically different way from classical computing. By way of context, and according to BYJU’S,

Quantum mechanics is the branch of physics that deals with the behavior of matter and light on a subatomic and atomic level. It attempts to explain the properties of atoms and molecules and their fundamental particles like protons, neutrons, electrons, gluons, and quarks.

Hence, while classical computers use bits, which can represent either a 0 or a 1, quantum computers employ quantum bits or qubits. These qubits have the unique property of existing in multiple states simultaneously, thanks to a phenomenon called superposition, which in turn facilitates considerably more complex computations and calculations simultaneously and considerably faster than just what classical digital computers can do. The videos below further explain quantum computing.

 

 

 

Why Quantum Computing Matters

As the videos highlight, quantum computing is a lot closer than we think. Further, it will soon become integral digital skills, as it is already being included in leading digital skills frameworks, such as the Demand Assessment Framework for the European Union, which has a section solely on quantum technologies and some discourse on the types of skills that will be in demand.

In addition to the areas highlighted in the videos, in which quantum computing is expected to have an impact, such as agriculture and medicine, below are more fields that are likely to be transformed as quantum computing improves.

  • Advanced cryptography: Quantum computing poses a threat to classical encryption methods, as it could potentially break widely used encryption algorithms. However, it also offers the opportunity to develop new, quantum-resistant encryption techniques that can protect sensitive data in an increasingly digital world.
  • Climate modelling: Quantum computing can simulate and analyse complex climate models with unprecedented accuracy, which may become increasingly important as the world’s climate and weather patterns are becoming less predictable. This improved modelling would strengthen climate research, helping us better understand and address pressing environmental issues.
  • Drug discovery and materials science: Quantum computing can simulate complex molecular structures and chemical reactions with considerably better precision than what is currently possible. This capability has the potential to accelerate drug discovery and the development of advanced materials, paving the way for more ground-breaking scientific discoveries and technological advancements.
  • Financial services: Quantum computing would be able to transform risk assessment, portfolio optimisation, and fraud detection in the financial industry, leading to more efficient and secure financial systems.
  • Optimization and machine learning: Quantum computing could address and significantly improve the optimisation challenges that are experienced, such as supply chain management, traffic routing, and financial modelling. Additionally, it would be able to improve machine learning algorithms, enabling more accurate predictions and faster training of AI models.
  • Space exploration: Quantum computing would be able to enhance the capabilities of space exploration by enabling more efficient navigation, communication, and data analysis for space missions.
  • Supply chain and logistics: Quantum computing would be able to optimise supply chain logistics, reducing costs and improving the efficiency of global trade and distribution networks.

 

In summary, quantum computing represents a massive leap forward in computing technology. Its ability to solve complex problems at unprecedented speeds has the potential to revolutionise numerous industries and scientific fields. Although quantum computing is not yet mainstream, the ongoing research and development in this field promise a future where our most daunting challenges can be addressed with greater ease and efficiency, making it one of the most important developments of our time.

 

 

Image credit:  Graham Carlow for IBM) (flickr)