How is Quantum Computing going to revolutionise the tech world?

Quantum computing is a relative newcomer to the world of computer science. It adheres to the peculiar rules of quantum mechanics (the science of tiny particles) to solve problems that would take powerful computers thousands if not millions of years to solve.  

How does it differ from a regular computer?

Regular computers use "bits" to store information as 1s and 0s. So, whenever you watch a movie and see a hacker with green-coloured 1s and 0s flashing across the screen, that's because it's a visual way of representing computer code.

Quantum computers use "qubits", which can be 1 and 0 simultaneously. This is thanks to a quantum property known as superposition. If you were to flip a coin, it's either going to be heads or tails. But it the quantum realm, the coin can be in a state where it's both heads and tails at the same time until you look at it. Only when you check does it pick one of the two outcomes.

With just a few qubits, quantum computers can tackle incredibly complex tasks that would take a regular computer thousands of years to solve—quantum computers could do it in minutes!

Quantum Computing Origins

Quantum computing was first theorised in the 1980's, however it wasn't till the mid-90s that an American theoretical computer scientist named Peter Shor published a book on its practical implementations. He developed an algorithm that showed how quantum computers would be able to crack the most advanced cryptography systems of all time - most of these we are still using 30 years later. Shor's findings demonstrated the Armageddon level implications for not just cybersecurity, but numerous other industries.

Where can it be used?

Environmental

Quantum computers could devise new ways to reduce harmful chemical waste or create better materials to replace fossil fuels. They could enable us to breakdown carbon emissions and combat climate change.

Medicinal

Similarly to the environmental research, quantum computers could completely change the way we develop medicines. By simulating how molecules and chemicals behave, life-saving drugs and treatments will be manufactured much cheaper and much faster.

AI

Due to the ridiculous amount of energy AI needs to operate, regular computers are being pushed to their limits. Quantum computers could alleviate this stress by looking at datasets in a completely new fashion. 

Conclusion

This blog has hopefully touched on some of the possible pros and cons of Quantum Computing's introduction. There are many leading institutions such as Google and Microsoft that are heavily investing into this new technological field. The industry is expected to be valued at $1.3 trillion within the next 10 years. We’d love to hear your thoughts—share your perspectives in the comments section on LinkedIn!