Not a quantum computing expert? Here are 10 things to know.
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The next big thing?
With research labs at Duke, NC State, and UNC partnering with large tech companies, will the Triangle be a leader in quantum computing?
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If you’re a quantum computing expert, this list isn’t for you. But for those who don’t really know a qubit from a Q-tip, here are 10 quick definitions to make you sound a bit smarter when it comes to quantum computers.
Classical computers
Computers operating on digital bits represented by binary 1s and 0s. Ranges from supercomputers to the PCs and Macs we use every day.
Quantum advantage
The improvement a quantum computer can provide over a classical computer to solve a real-world problem. This moment has yet to be reached.
Quantum mechanics
The science of how the universe behaves at the subatomic level, including particles you learned about in grade school like electrons, protons and ions.
Qubit
Short for quantum bit, it is the information unit in a quantum computer.
Superposition
One of two quantum phenomena that significantly expand quantum computers’ calculating abilities. Involves the capacity for a qubit to be in multiple positions at once until it’s measured.
Entanglement
Another quantum phenomenon that expands quantum computers’ powers. Involves how qubits are interwoven.
Noise
The inaccurate results quantum computers currently produce when performing more advanced calculations. Many factors can cause noise, namely the inherent challenges of controlling subatomic interactions.
Trapped Ion Quantum Computer
A type of quantum computer that involves suspending individual atoms in an airless vacuum. Ion-trap is the approach Duke University researchers are taking at the school’s quantum lab in downtown Durham.
Superconducting Quantum Computer
Another type of quantum computer that uses superconductor chips. This is the type of computer N.C. State University is studying in partnership with IBM, which houses its “chandelier” quantum computer in upstate New York.
FinTech
Short for financial technology, it is an area many foresee being impacted by quantum computers in the near future. The analytical nature of financial services, combined with the immense sums of money at stake, have helped advance quantum research in the industry. UNC-Chapel Hill is leading the way in studying quantum computing applications in finance.
This story was originally published October 2, 2022 at 6:00 AM with the headline "Not a quantum computing expert? Here are 10 things to know.."
