International Year of Quantum

The United Nations has declared 2025 as the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology to increase public awareness of the importance of quantum science and to bolster support for using it to address current challenges.

What is Quantum Computing?

• Quantum computing is a revolutionary field at the intersection of computer science, physics, and mathematics.
• It harnesses the principles of quantum mechanics to solve complex problems faster than classical computers.
• This advantage stems from leveraging quantum phenomena like superposition and entanglement.
• Types of Quantum Technologies Various qubit technologies are being explored, including gate-based ion trap processors, gate-based superconducting processors, photonic processors, neutral atom processors, Rydberg atom processors, and quantum annealers.
• In 2023, India became the seventh country to have a National Quantum Mission, after the US, Austria, Finland, France, Canada and China, dedicated to the development of quantum technologies.

Quantum Mechanics Basics

• Quantum mechanics explores the behavior of particles at a microscopic scale. In this realm, particles behave differently from what we observe in the macroscopic world. Key to quantum computing is the concept of qubits, which can exist in superposition states, unlike classical bits.
  • A qubit (or quantum bit) is the quantum mechanical analogue of a classical bit.

Principles of Quantum Computing

• Superposition: Qubits can exist in multiple states simultaneously, providing inherent parallelism for quantum computers.
• Entanglement: When qubits become entangled, the state of one qubit instantly correlates with another, regardless of distance.
• Decoherence: Environmental factors can disrupt the quantum state of qubits, leading to decoherence. Overcoming this challenge is crucial for building stable quantum computers.

Applications of Quantum Computing

Quantum computing holds immense potential across industries:

• Machine Learning: Quantum computing can enhance data analysis and prediction capabilities.
• Optimization: Quantum algorithms can optimize complex processes, leading to cost reduction and efficiency improvements.
• Simulation: Quantum computers can tackle simulations that are currently intractable for classical computers, particularly in chemistry and materials science.

Use Cases in Various Industries

Industries are exploring quantum computing for diverse applications:

• Machine Learning: Predicting market movements and improving manufacturing operations.
• Optimization: Optimizing loan portfolios, supply chains, and production processes.
• Simulation: Conducting accurate simulations in chemistry and materials science, enabling breakthroughs in drug discovery and materials research.