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Quantum Computing: The Top Six Truths And Myths.

March 5th 2023

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Graphics generated with Stable Diffusion on March 5th, 203 using the prompt "artistic view of quantum computing"

This text was fully written by humans.

SUMMARY / KEY TAKEAWAYS

  • Quantum mechanics studies matter and energy at the atomic and nuclear levels. The rules of the quantum world are used in quantum computing to execute complicated operations.

  • Here, we introduce the basic ideas behind quantum computing while clearing up some myths and facts about this rising technology. 

  • We also discuss the market applications of quantum computing and careers arising in this arena.

What Is Quantum Computing?

In the last few years, an interest in quantum computing has rapidly increased. It is a unique and fascinating technology that has the potential to transform the way we handle data.

Quantum computing is a brand of software engineering that performs calculations using quantum mechanics concepts. The concept behind quantum computing is to apply quantum mechanics to perform complicated computations much quicker than “normal” computers do.

Here, we introduce the basic ideas behind quantum computing while clearing up some myths and facts about this rising technology. We also discuss the market applications of Quantum Computing and careers arising next to it.

Quantum computing is built on the foundation that information may be processed via the features of quantum bits (or, qubits), which are the classical computing equivalents of bits. While standard bits can take only one of two values (0 or 1), qubits may take multiple values, allowing quantum computers to execute multiple operations simultaneously.

The first quantum computer was invented in the early 1998, therefore, quantum computing has a very brief history. However, it was only in the 1990s that quantum computing attracted massive attention, and it has since evolved dramatically.

What Is the Phenomenon of Quantum Computing?

Quantum mechanics studies matter and energy at the atomic and nuclear levels. The rules of the quantum world are used in quantum computing to execute complicated operations.

Quantum computing depends on traditional computing in numerous areas. One of the primary variations is that common computers process information using binary bits, which can only take one of two values (0 or 1).

Quantum computers, on the other hand, process information using quantum bits or qubits, which can take numerous states at the same time. It enables quantum computers to perform several calculations at the same time.

Another vital difference between quantum and “traditional” computers is how mistakes are treated. Errors in traditional computing might lead to false results. On the contrary, flaws in quantum computing may be discovered and fixed more readily, giving it a significant advantage over traditional computing.

One important remark is that cloud computing has nothing to do with quantum computing. Cloud computing means nothing else than decentralized transmission of computing services through the Internet and has nothing to do with quantum mechanics.

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The Ultimate Truths and Myths About Quantum Computing.

1. Quantum Computing Will Replace Traditional Computing.

Myth: The end of conventional computing is imminent due to quantum computing.

Truth: Quantum computing likely won’t completely replace traditional computers.

Recently, rumors of Google’s “Quantum Supremacy” began to circulate online. This prompted several futurists to declare that quantum computers will soon displace traditional computing. 

Indeed, it seems logical to assume that once new technology is in place, the computing machines of the previous generation will inevitably become obsolete. But in practice, as of today, the quantum processor developed by Google, Sycamore, only includes 53 qubits and can only carry out a very small number of tasks.

2. Quantum Computing Is Like Traditional Computing, Just Faster.

Myth: Quantum computing may execute programs that resemble those used by conventional computers.

Truth: Unlike conventional computers, quantum computers cannot execute the same programming commands.

The fundamental cause for this discrepancy in the scope of applications between quantum computing and “traditional computing” is that various sets of algorithms are required for quantum computing to run each application. 

It would be a dream for scientists and programmers if quantum computers were able to create applications from the ground up. Unfortunately, quantum computing machines can only serve to resolve computing problems dedicated specifically to quantum computing.

3. Quantum Computing Vs Cybersecurity.

Myth: Quantum computing makes cybersecurity useless.

Truth: In the event of a quantum attack, quantum computing can compromise Internet security.

It is still a myth, as the Public Key Cryptography (PKC) algorithms used today are resistant to security assaults conducted by common PCs.

However, researchers warn that the situation might change in the future. It will take a long time before quantum computers can defeat even the most resistant PKC algorithms, but then, our whole communication and data are at risk as a result.

Algorithms for quantum cryptography offer enhanced cybersecurity even in a significant quantum assault. However, it is only a theory. Comparatively, one of the uses for quantum computing is improved cybersecurity using quantum machines.

4. Quantum Consciousness.

Myth: Quantum computers can develop awareness and evolve into a “Quantum Mind.”

Truth: There is no evidence to support the existence of quantum consciousness or mind.

It’s heavily disputed whether or not one of the benefits of quantum computing can be quantum consciousness. The discussion started from comparing human brain to quantum computers.

It is known that single molecules interacting at synaptic clefts while transmitting electric signals through the brain undergo quantum laws of physics. It essentially means that the rules of quantum mechanics govern our thinking.

The degree of disparity in complexity between a brain and any machine is huge. However, both humans and, recently, AI have demonstrated design skills. Therefore, even if it would be theoretically feasible, it might imply that a computer can develop awareness or a mind of its own and become sentient.

A recent report claimed that Facebook had discontinued its AI robot project because during the project two robots spoke to one another in a language humans were unfamiliar with. 

While Quantum Mind is one of the popular hypotheses related to quantum computing, we still have a long way to go until we fully comprehend quantum physics and computing. However, none of the theories about the quantum mind were grounded in science.

5. Commercialization of Quantum Computing.

Myth: In 15 years, quantum computing will be commercially available.

Truth: It won’t be easy, even with quantum computing, to completely replace classical computing.

Since quantum computing has been widely acknowledged as a viable type of computing for the past 15 years, little has changed: quantum computing is insanely expensive.

For calculations to be completed quickly, a lot of heat must be produced. Quantum computers must be kept in storage at temperatures of -273C (or -460F) which is close to the minimal possible temperature also know as the absolute zero.

As a result, the prices of commercial quantum computers are astronomical. For instance, the real price of D-Wave One machine by D-Wave Systems including 50 qubits is $10 million. D-Wave’s 2000 qubit quantum computer costs $15 million. For every extra qubit in processing power, you need to add $10,000 extra.

As a consequence, at most, data centers will utilize quantum computing for research and advanced computational modeling. 

And what about households? Traditional computers continue to be powerful, therefore, the future belongs to hybrid machines. The only way to raise the profile of quantum computing in the business world is through hybrid devices, combining stationary traditional computers with quantum computers operating in the cloud.

6. Using Quantum Computing To Simulate Reality.

Myth: Quantum computers could serve to simulate actual events.

Truth: Only some of the possible real-world scenarios can be encoded into quantum computers.

Theoretically, the superposition of the qubits in quantum computers allows them to simulate the real-world scenarios, especially in the areas which involve probabilistic events such as financial, weather, and agriculture models. Therefore, many people are hopeful that quantum computers could simulate the future in general.

According to the reality of quantum computing, a 300-qubit quantum computer can accurately anticipate various financial outcomes over the next few years. However, it does not seem feasible to achieve the complete prediction of the future of the world as it is simply too complex to be simulated.

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Current Applications of Quantum Computing.

Quantum computing is still a relatively new concept and its commercial applications are limited. Still, it has huge potential in many industries. Some of the current applications of quantum computing include:

1. Drug Discovery and Design.

One of the most promising quantum computing areas is drug discovery and design. Quantum computing algorithms can simulate complex molecular interactions essential to drug discovery. By emulating these interactions at a molecular level, quantum computing can help researchers to discover new drugs faster and more efficiently.

2. Supply Chain Optimization.

Quantum computing can help optimize supply chain management, making it more cost-efficient. Quantum algorithms can help companies make better decisions about where to allocate resources and how to optimize their supply chain networks.

3. Financial Modeling.

Financial modeling is yet another area where quantum computing can have major impact. Quantum algorithms can help financial institutions to analyze vast amounts of data, make financial predictions, and simulate complex economic scenarios. It will help in making better investment decisions, reducing risks, and increasing profits.

4. Cryptographic Algorithms.

Quantum processing power is already being developed to improve security and protect data. Quantum computing can assist in cracking cryptographic techniques that were previously seen as impenetrable, allowing critical information to be secured.

5. Artificial Intelligence.

Quantum computing has the potential to transform the area of Artificial Intelligence by enabling solution of issues that are now too complicated for desktop workstations. It might lead to advancements in the development of AI and machine learning.

Despite these potential benefits, present quantum computing applications have certain drawbacks. For example, quantum computing is still in its early stage and additional commercial applications are needed. Moreover, quantum computing needs specialized hardware, which is still extremely expensive and requires technical skills.

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Jobs in the Quantum Computing Arena.

Quantum computing is a rising sector with a strong demand for employees who present the necessary skills and experience. Some of the most popular positions in quantum computing are as follows:

1. Engineer in the Quantum Computing Space.

Quantum computing engineers are responsible for developing, constructing, and operating quantum computer machines. They collaborate with hardware and software developers to create and test new quantum programs and technologies.

According to Glassdoor, a Quantum Computing Engineer earns an average of $126,058.

2. Data Scientist in the Quantum Computing Space.

Data Scientists in quantum computing are in charge of analyzing and evaluating data generated by quantum computing devices. They collaborate with software engineers and quantum computing experts to create new algorithms and tools for processing and analyzing data generated by quantum computing systems.

According to zipRecruiter, a Quantum Computing Data Scientist earns an average of $122,057.

3. Consultant in the Quantum Computing Space.

Consultants in quantum computing assist organizations in understanding the potential benefits of quantum computing and how this new technology might be applied to their creative demands. They advise and help businesses on the best ways to adopt quantum computing into their operations and make the most of this technology.

According to Zippia, a Quantum Computing Consultant earns an average of $82,599.

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Please cite as:

Siddiqui, H. A., Bielczyk, N. (2023, March 5th). Quantum Computing: The Top Six Truths And Myths. Retrieved from https://ontologyofvalue.com/top-truths-and-myths-about-quantum-computing/

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