Curiosity is what drives people like you and me to learn about the world around us. This love of the unknown is what led me to quantum computing, and it’s the driving force behind my sharing this information with you. The entire concept of computers is changing, and quantum computing—though a relatively new form of computation—has the potential to revolutionize science, technology, and many other aspects of daily life. This overlooked and rising technology has the capacity to change the world. In this article, I will discuss the answers to the following four questions:
- What is quantum computing?
- How can quantum computing be applied?
- Why does quantum computing matter?
- How can you embrace quantum computing?
What is quantum computing?
Your computer, laptop, and smartphone operate with traditional computing methods.[1] Traditional computers depend on the binary system of zeros and ones to store data and perform calculations. This form of computation was developed in the late 1930s and does some amazing things! Surprisingly, despite nearly a century of technological advancements, the foundation of this technology has essentially remained unchanged since its introduction.[2]
Advancements such as reduced size, improved processing speed, and decreased costs have enhanced today’s computers; but until the development of quantum computing, there has been no change to the fundamental method of computing.
Quantum computing was first theorized in the 1970s.[3] The concept of quantum technology is founded on the quantum theory. The nature of subatomic particles allows us to store data within them. However, due to the design of classical computers, their computing methods have difficulty replicating uncertainty and chance. The design of quantum computers allows for elements of true randomness in the calculations it performs. The unpredictable nature of subatomic particles, known as quantum interference and quantum entanglement, allows for accurate simulations of uncertainty.
Instead of carrying just a zero or a one in traditional binary, qubits—quantum bits—carry a larger range of values. This means that quantum computers are capable of storing much more information. The increased information quantum computing carries leads to quicker and more complicated computations. Professor Ahmed Banafa said it best: “With quantum computing, we can solve a problem that takes 10,000 years with supercomputers in 200 seconds.”[4]
How can quantum computing be applied?
Currently, two major computing methods exist: 1) quantum computing, which is relatively young technology, and 2) classical computing, which is more developed and mature. Because of the young nature of quantum computing, many of its applications lie in the future. Major tech companies, such as Google and IBM, have been working with quantum computing for up to 20 years.[5] These two companies have each built their own quantum computers. The graph below shows the distribution of quantum usage by area for 2019.
The top three areas of application for current quantum computing are finance, global energy, and advanced technology.[6] Adding quantum computing will increase efficiency in each of these three areas. Financial models can be improved to represent current trends more accurately. Quantum computing can enhance productivity to produce cleaner and larger amounts of energy and other resources. Artificial intelligence and other technological innovations can expand exponentially by implementing quantum computing.
A study of GDP growth forecasting concludes that the future holds high prospects for quantum computing methods.[7] Quantum technology can further advance other technologies around the world.
Another area impacted by quantum computing is the chemistry and pharmaceutical sectors. Google’s quantum computer successfully simulated a chemical reaction in 2019.[8] With continued refinement, this technology could run models for complex drugs and other chemical interactions. Quantum simulations will improve pharmaceutical production and allow for higher-quality drugs. The list of potential applications goes on and on, with many applications still waiting to be realized.
Why does quantum computing matter?
Nobody likes falling behind—the future is taking off. Technologies and other innovations, like quantum computing, are propelling society into the future.[9] If the horizon of the future is where you want to be, take responsibility and keep up with the rising technologies. That includes quantum computing.
Quantum computing is rising at a rapid compound annual growth rate of over 30%.[10] The market value of the quantum computing industry is projected to continue high market value growth during the next three years.[11] The graph beneath shows the projection of market value from 2016 to 2025. In nine years, the market value is projected to increase by over ten times.
As quantum technology continues to grow, you will find more careers in the quantum world. With such significant growth, your paycheck will likely be influenced by the quantum industry. The quantum computing market value is increasing to $949 million. This growth will certainly reveal many opportunities where you could establish a lucrative career in the quantum field. As the quantum industry continues to grow, your quantum innovations can bring you a life of stability and wealth.
How can you embrace quantum computing?
You might be sitting there, asking yourself, “What can I do? I’m no quantum physicist!” My advice to you is not throw away this valuable knowledge of the changing future. While you might not be the one developing quantum technology, you can uncover day-to-day applications for this rising technology. You don’t have to be a scientist to discover a million-dollar application for quantum computing. Finding ways to integrate quantum computing into psychology, medicine, or sports are just a few ways you can further expand future possibilities. Your simple ideas of how to apply quantum technology can better the world.
With this understanding in mind, build on this introduction to quantum computing. Take just 20 minutes and do your own research on quantum computing. Watch a YouTube video that further explains the quantum theory. Read an article on potential applications for quantum technology. Talk to a quantum physicist or computer engineer about the mechanics of a quantum computer. With a better understanding of what quantum computing can do, you are equipped with the knowledge to brainstorm and revolutionize this technology. Your applications for quantum computing will propel your life forward and expand the possibilities of your future.
1. Kietzmann, Jan, Dionysios S. Demetis, Theresa Eriksson, and Amir Dabirian. “Hello Quantum! How Quantum Computing Will Change the World.” IT Professional Magazine 23, no. 4 (2021): 107. https://dx.doi.org/10.1109/MITP.2021.3086917.
2. Ibid.
3. Samuel Greengard. “Qubit Devices Inch Toward Reality.” ACM 64 no. 11 (November 2021): 11-13. https://doi.org/10.1145/3484988.
4. “Award-Winning Author and Northwestern Polytechnic University Professor Ahmed Banafa Pens New Book on Quantum Computing: ‘Quantum Computing and Other Transformative Technologies’ Explores the Wide Applications for Emerging Yet Complex Technologies.” PR Newswire (November 24, 2021). http://erl.lib.byu.edu/login/?url=https://www.proquest.com/wire-feeds/award-winning-author-northwestern-polytechnic/docview/2601610440/se-2?accountid=4488.
5. Cem Dilmegani. “Quantum Computing Stats: Forecasts & Facts for 2022 & Beyond.” AI Multiple (February 7, 2022). https://research.aimultiple.com/quantum-computing-stats/.
6. Ibid.
7. Alaminos, David, M. Belen Salas, and Manuel A. Fernandez-Gamez. “Quantum Computing and Deep Learning Methods for GDP Growth Forecasting.” Computational Economics 59 no. 2 (February 2022): 803-829. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10614-021-10110-z.
8. Neil Savage. “Google’s Quantum Computer Achieves Chemistry Milestone.” Scientific American (September 4, 2020). https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/googles-quantum-computer-achieves-chemistry-milestone/.
9. Leah Hoffmann. “Exploring the Promise of Quantum Computing.” Communications of the ACM 64 no. 12 (December 2021): 119-120. https://doi.org/10.1145/3490319.
10. Cem Dillmegani. “Quantum Computing Stats.”
