PHYSICS 10.

01

Reflection Paper No. 1: Takeaways from Quantum Computing

Before discussing the concept of Quantum Computing and its significance in the
real world, it is necessary to know first the basic foundation of this particular field in
Physics—which is Quantum Mechanics.

Quantum Mechanics, as stated by lecturer, Dr. Roberto Ramos, is simply the

physics of the very small and the very cold. But what is the idea of a quantum first?
Well, energy, is stated to take on continuous values; but when it is within a confined
space, it then takes on discrete, quantized values.

An example given for this ideology was a rubber band that was thought out as a
quantum mechanical wave, to which was wrapped around in a circle like a wave
vibrating with its resonant nodes. For a clearer image, it’s to be seen as an orbital (like
the ones referred to in our Chemistry classes, as emphasized by Dr. Ramos), wherein
the quantum mechanical wave represents the electron.

And these waves and orbits contain different levels of energies, in which at some
point we would want to see them. However, we cannot resolve the difference of energy
in its states if the temperature surrounding it is too high. The given reasoning behind
this is that delta E, in different energies, has the ability to get washed out when it gets
too warm. Therefore, requiring a resolution in temperature in order to read states 0 and
1.

This is why quantum system implementation require some form of cryogenics,

which is simply defined as the physics of extreme cold. And when you combine
quantum mechanics and cryogenics—it becomes a bridge for powerful applications in
quantum computing.

This is the part where we finally ask what it means. So, to answer, we first start
with classical computing, wherein it uses strings of 0s and 1s which denote numbers or
alphanumerics, sometimes, these two states are also to be seen as magnets that
denote up or down. But the most intriguing part about these states is that information is
encoded through them, as it principally bears a physical implementation.

Classical computing makes use of the classical bit, wherein it only possesses two
(2) states, 1 and 0. Now, what would likely happen if the vector can point anywhere on
the sphere which the classical bit denotes?

The answer is the quantum bit, to which it expresses the state of any vector as
the superposition of 0 and 1, whereas it’s used as basis states, and is said to store
infinitely more information in the superposition wave. Moreover, any kind of computation
that makes use of the mechanics of a superposition wave is likely more powerful.

This is the fundamental factor of quantum computing, and a key supplement to

quantum computers—the talk of the town, especially for small and big companies, and
the reasons behind its increasing popularity are the following:

1) Enables rapid searches;

2) Factors large numbers used in encryptions wherein it establishes a firmer
level of security;
3) Simulates quantum and complex systems that are mainly used in drug
development, analyzation of behavioral markets, and etc.;
4) Calculates faster and secures information needed in an even more efficient
speed therefore stimulating the demand for such governments and
companies.

In other words, quantum computers revolutionize the ways of information

processing, and the entire spectrum of modern technology.

Thus, the study and usage of quantum computing springs out a new form of
demand amongst countries as it is essential into further industrializing and developing
our given societies with the use of technology.

I can also see it being crucial in regards to economic development, as per the
information stated, which furthermore highlights the urgency to call on our government
units to fund researches (especially like this) in the country.