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SEMINAR REPORT
ON
Blockchain vs Quantum Computing
A Seminar Submitted in Partial Fulfilment of the Requirements for the Degree of
Bachelor of Technology
In
SESSION-2023-24
2
CERTIFICATE
This is to certify that the seminar entitled “ Blockchain vs Quantum Computing” submitted by SOMYA
RANJAN ROY having Registration Number : 2001326041 to the Biju Pattnaik University of Technology,
Odisha for partial fulfilment of the award for Bachelor of Technology in Computer Science & Engineering,
is a Bonafede seminar work carried out by him under my supervision.
The results presented in this seminar have not been submitted elsewhere for the award of any other degree.
In my opinion this work has reached the standard fulfilling the requirements for the award of the degree of
B .Tech in accordance with the regulation of the University
DECLARATION
I declare that this written submission represents my ideas with my own words and where others’ ideas or
words
have been included. I have adequately cited and referenced the original sources. I also declare that i have
adhered to all principles of academic honesty and integrity and have not misrepresented or fabricated or
falsified any idea/ data/ fact/ source in my submission. I understand that any violation of the above will be
cause for disciplinary action by the institute and can also evoke penal action from the sources which have thus
not been properly cited or from whom proper permission has not been taken when needed.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
I am very grateful, thankful and wish to record our indebtedness to Prof. Sidhanta Kumar Balabantaray,
H.O.D. of Computer Science & Engineering, Gandhi Institute for Education and Technology, Baniatangi,
I would also like to thank my guide Prof. Dona chakraborty of Computer Science & Engineering
Department
for his continued drive for better quality in everything that allowed me to carry out my seminar work.
Lastly, word run to express my gratitude to my parents and all the Professors, Lecturers, Technical and official
staffs and friends for their co-operation, constructive criticism and valuable suggestions during the preparation
of seminar report.
ABSTRACT
Blockchain technology and quantum cryptography are two of the most
significant and rapidly developing areas of computer science. Since it has the
CONTENTS
CHAPTER 1: - Introduction 7 to 9
• Overview of Blockchain Technology
• Definition and Key Concepts
• Introduction to Quantum Computing
• Understanding Quantum Mechanics
CHAPTER 2: - Working Principles 10 to 13
• How Blockchain Works
• Blocks, Hashing, and Cryptography
• Quantum Computing and Cryptography
CHAPTER 3: - Security and Privacy 14 to 15
• Blockchain Security
• Immutability and Tamper Resistance
CHAPTER 4: - Applications and Use Cases 16 to 18
• Blockchain Applications
• Cryptocurrencies and Digital Payments
• Quantum Computing Use Cases
• Quantum Simulation and Materials Science
CHAPTER 5: - Challenges and Future Outlook 19 to 22
• Challenges Facing Blockchain Technology
• Governance and Regulatory Concerns
• Quantum Computing Challenges and Future Prospects
• Quantum Error Correction and Fault Tolerance
CHAPTER 6: - Conclusion 23 to 26
• Summary of Key Differences and Similarities
• Future Prospects and Implications for Industrie
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CHAPTER:1
Introduction to blockchain vs Quantum Computing
In the rapidly evolving landscape of modern technology, two cutting-edge innovations have
emerged as major contenders in their respective domains - blockchain and quantum
computing. Both technologies have captured the imagination of researchers, businesses, and
the public alike, promising to revolutionize the way we store and process information, secure
transactions, and solve complex problems.
Blockchain, introduced with the advent of Bitcoin in 2009, is a decentralized and distributed
ledger system that enables secure and transparent record-keeping of digital transactions and
data. It has since expanded beyond cryptocurrencies, finding applications in various industries,
such as supply chain management, healthcare, and finance. Blockchain's core principles of
transparency, immutability, and decentralization offer the potential to reshape traditional
systems, fostering trust and efficiency in a thrustless environment
The core concept of blockchain revolves around "blocks" of data, each containing a set of
transactions. These blocks are linked together in chronological order, forming an
unchangeable chain of blocks, hence the name "blockchain." Once a transaction is recorded
on the blockchain, it becomes nearly impossible to alter, providing a tamper-proof history of
events.
4. Decentralization: The absence of a central authority means that all participating nodes
have equal authority and contribute to the validation and maintenance of the
blockchain.
5. Trustless Transactions: Through the use of consensus mechanisms, such as Proof of
Work or Proof of Stake, blockchain allows trustless interactions between parties,
reducing the need for intermediaries.
Blockchain is a decentralized and distributed ledger technology that facilitates secure and
transparent record-keeping of digital transactions and data. It operates on a network of
interconnected computers (nodes), where each participant has equal authority. Transactions
are grouped into "blocks," and each block is linked to the previous one, forming a
chronological chain of blocks. This chain is maintained and verified by the entire network,
ensuring the integrity and immutability of the recorded information. Blockchain gained
prominence with the rise of cryptocurrencies, but its applications extend to various
industries, offering improved trust, transparency, and efficiency.
Blockchain:
In January 2009, Nakamoto mined the first-ever block, known as the "genesis block,"
marking the birth of Bitcoin and the blockchain era. Bitcoin's blockchain was initially
designed as a public ledger for recording and verifying transactions of the digital
currency.
Quantum Computing:
The concept of quantum computing dates back to the early 1980s when physicist Richard
Feynman proposed the idea of a quantum computer to simulate quantum systems. However,
it wasn't until the mid-1990s when Peter Shor and Lov Grover developed groundbreaking
quantum algorithms that the potential of quantum computing for solving specific problems
efficiently was recognized.
In 1994, Peter Shor introduced Shor's algorithm, which demonstrated that a large-scale
quantum computer could factorize large numbers exponentially faster than classical
computers. This algorithm posed a serious threat to widely-used cryptographic systems like
RSA, sparking interest in quantum-resistant cryptographic schemes.
In 1996, Lov Grover developed Grover's algorithm, which can search an unsorted database
in O(√n) time compared to O(n) time required by classical algorithms. This algorithm has
applications in database search and optimization problems.
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CHAPTER: 2
Working Principles
b. Consensus Mechanism: To validate and agree on the state of the blockchain, participants
in the network follow a consensus mechanism. The most common consensus mechanism is
Proof-of-Work (PoW), used by Bitcoin, where miners compete to solve complex
mathematical puzzles to add new blocks to the chain.
a. Quantum Superposition: Qubits can represent both 0 and 1 at the same time, allowing
quantum computers to perform multiple calculations in parallel and potentially solve certain
problems exponentially faster than classical computers.
b. Quantum Entanglement: Qubits can be entangled, meaning the state of one qubit is
dependent on the state of another, regardless of the distance between them. This property
enables quantum computers to perform complex computations and algorithms.
trust, transparency, and immutability, making it suitable for various applications beyond
cryptocurrencies.
Hashing: Hashing is a cryptographic process that takes an input (data of any size) and
produces a fixed-size output called a hash value. The hash function converts the input data
into a unique and seemingly random string of characters. It's a one-way process, meaning
you can't reverse the hash value to get back the original input.
Cryptography: Cryptography is the science of using mathematical techniques and
algorithms to secure communication, data, and transactions. In the context of blockchain,
cryptography plays a crucial role in ensuring the security and privacy of the network.
While quantum computing holds tremendous promise, it is still in its early stages of
development, and practical, large-scale quantum computers are yet to become widely
available. Several challenges must be overcome, such as qubit stability and error
correction, to build robust and fault-tolerant quantum computers.
Quantum mechanics is a fundamental theory of physics that describes the behavior of particles
at the smallest scales. It introduces concepts like superposition, where particles can exist in
multiple states simultaneously, and entanglement, where the state of one particle is instantly
linked to another, regardless of distance. Quantum mechanics also includes the uncertainty
principle, which sets limits on measuring certain properties of particles precisely. This
counterintuitive theory forms the basis of quantum computing and has revolutionized our
understanding of the microscopic world.
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In quantum mechanics, particles like electrons and photons can exhibit both particle-like and
wave-like behaviors, depending on how they are observed or measured. This concept is known
as "wave-particle duality." For example, light can behave as a wave, creating interference
patterns, or as a particle (photon), interacting with matter as discrete packets of energy.
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CHAPTER: -3
Security and Privacy
1. Immutable Ledger: Blockchain's distributed and decentralized nature, combined with cryptographic
hashing, ensures that once data is recorded in a block, it becomes practically immutable. This
provides a high level of security against data tampering and unauthorized changes, making it
challenging to alter historical records.
2. Cryptographic Techniques: Blockchain relies heavily on cryptographic techniques to secure
transactions, verify identity, and protect sensitive information. Digital signatures and public-key
cryptography are used to authenticate transactions and establish ownership.
3. Consensus Mechanism: The consensus mechanism used in blockchain, such as Proof-of-Work
(PoW) or Proof-of-Stake (PoS), ensures that the network agrees on the validity of transactions. This
consensus process enhances security by preventing double-spending and unauthorized modifications.
cryptographic algorithms commonly used to secure data and communications, such as RSA and
ECC. Shor's algorithm, running on a sufficiently powerful quantum computer, can factor large
quantum cryptography" algorithms that remain secure even in the presence of quantum computers.
computing world.
3. Quantum Key Distribution (QKD): QKD is a quantum cryptographic technique that leverages the
laws of quantum mechanics to exchange cryptographic keys securely. It ensures that any
eavesdropping attempts are detectable, making it a promising solution for secure communication.
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Blockchain Security
Blockchain security relies on cryptographic techniques, decentralization, consensus
mechanisms, and immutability to ensure data integrity, prevent unauthorized modifications,
and resist attacks. Decentralization reduces single points of failure, while consensus
mechanisms like PoW or PoS validate transactions. Cryptographic hashing and digital
signatures protect data and verify identities. Once data is added to the blockchain, it becomes
nearly immutable, enhancing trust and security. Ongoing improvements and post-quantum
measures are essential to maintain blockchain security against emerging threats.
In Blockchain:
• Immutability: Once data is recorded in a block and added to the blockchain, it becomes extremely
difficult to alter or delete. The cryptographic hashing and consensus mechanism prevent tampering,
ensuring historical records remain unchanged.
• Tamper Resistance: Blockchain's decentralized nature and consensus mechanisms deter malicious
actors from modifying data or gaining control of the network, making it resistant to tampering
attempts.
In Quantum Computing:
• Immutability: Quantum computing does not directly affect the immutability of data
stored in a blockchain. Instead, its potential impact lies in breaking classical
cryptographic algorithms, which could compromise data security in traditional
systems.
• Tamper Resistance: Quantum computing could pose a threat to certain cryptographic
algorithms used in classical systems, enabling attackers to tamper with data protected
by these algorithms. To address this, quantum-safe cryptographic algorithms are being
developed to resist quantum attacks and maintain tamper resistance.
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CHAPTER: - 4
Applications and Use Cases
Applications and Use Cases in Blockchain:
1. Cryptocurrencies: Blockchain's first and most famous application is cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin
and Ethereum, enabling decentralized digital currencies and secure transactions.
2. Supply Chain Management: Blockchain is used to track and verify the provenance of goods,
enhancing transparency and trust in supply chains.
3. Voting Systems: Blockchain-based voting platforms offer secure and transparent voting processes,
reducing fraud and ensuring accurate results.
Blockchain Applications
Blockchain's application in short is to provide a decentralized, secure, and transparent ledger
system for recording and verifying transactions. It is primarily known for enabling
cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin but extends to various industries, including supply chain
management, voting systems, smart contracts, and decentralized finance (DeFi). By
eliminating the need for intermediaries and ensuring data integrity, blockchain improves trust
and efficiency in diverse processes.
Cryptocurrencies and Digital Payment
Cryptocurrencies and Digital Payment in Blockchain:
1. Complex Materials Modeling: Materials science involves studying the properties and
interactions of materials at the atomic and molecular level. Quantum simulation allows
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researchers to model these complex materials more accurately, taking into account
quantum mechanical effects that classical computers struggle to handle efficiently.
2. High Accuracy: Quantum simulation can provide highly accurate predictions of
material properties, such as electronic structures, bond energies, and reaction rates,
enabling researchers to design new materials with specific desired properties.
3. New Material Discovery: Quantum simulations can explore vast chemical and
structural spaces that are otherwise computationally infeasible for classical computers.
This capability facilitates the discovery of novel materials with unique characteristics
for various applications, such as energy storage, catalysis, and electronics.
4. Understanding Quantum Phenomena: Materials science often involves
investigating quantum phenomena, such as superconductivity or quantum phase
transitions. Quantum simulation allows researchers to explore and analyze these
phenomena in a controlled and precise manner.
5. Reduced Experimental Costs: Quantum simulation can complement experimental
research by providing valuable insights before conducting costly experiments. It can
guide experimentalists towards more targeted investigations of materials with
promising properties.
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CHAPTER: - 5
Challenges and Future Outlook
Challenges and Future Outlook in Blockchain:
Challenges:
Future Outlook:
Challenges:
future Outlook:
4. Data Privacy and Quantum AI: Quantum AI raises privacy concerns due to improved
data access and processing.
5. Ethical Considerations: Ethical guidelines needed for responsible use, especially in
encryption and AI development.
Quantum Computing Challenges and Future Prospects
Future Prospects:
CHAPTER: -6
Conclusion
ACCORDING TO THE ARTICLES, QUANTUM CRYPTOGRAPHY HAS THE POTENTIAL TO
CREATE NEARLY UNBREAKABLE ENCRYPTION AND SECURE COMMUNICATION
CHANNELS. YET, THE REQUIREMENT FOR SPECIALIZED HARDWARE AND THE DANGER
PRESENTED BY QUANTUM COMPUTERS CONTINUE TO RESTRICT THE PRACTICAL
APPLICATION OF THIS TECHNOLOGY. YET, BLOCKCHAIN TECHNOLOGY OFFERS A
DECENTRALIZED MECHANISM FOR AUTHENTICATING AND STORING TRANSACTIONAL
DATA, WHICH HAS THE POTENTIAL TO PRODUCE TRANSPARENT AND IMPENETRABLE
RECORDS OF ALL TRANSACTIONS. ALTHOUGH QUANTUM CRYPTOGRAPHY MAY OFFER
SECURE COMMUNICATION ROUTES BETWEEN NODES IN A BLOCKCHAIN NETWORK,
INCREASING THE SECURITY OF ONLINE TRANSACTIONS, NUMEROUS ARTICLES ALSO
COVERED THE ADVANTAGES OF COMBINING THESE TWO TECHNOLOGIES. HOWEVER,
THERE ARE STILL SEVERAL DIFFICULTIES IN INTEGRATING THESE TWO
TECHNOLOGIES, INCLUDING THE REQUIREMENT FOR STANDARDIZATION AND
COMPATIBILITY. THE REVIEW'S MAIN FINDING IS THAT BOTH BLOCKCHAIN
TECHNOLOGY AND QUANTUM CRYPTOGRAPHY HAVE THE POTENTIAL TO
SIGNIFICANTLY IMPROVE THE SECURITY OF ONLINE TRANSACTIONS, ESPECIALLY
WHEN IT COMES TO FINANCIAL TRANSACTIONS AND OTHER SENSITIVE DATA.
HOWEVER, FURTHER RESEARCH IS NECESSARY TO OVERCOME THESE ISSUES AND
REALIZE THE FULL POTENTIAL OF THESE TECHNOLOGIES BECAUSE THEIR PRACTICAL
APPLICATION CURRENTLY CONFRONTS SEVERAL DIFFICULTIES.
Differences:
1. Technology:
• Blockchain: Blockchain is a distributed ledger technology that records and
verifies transactions in a secure, transparent, and decentralized manner.
• Quantum Computing: Quantum computing leverages principles of quantum
mechanics to perform complex calculations using qubits, which can exist in
multiple states simultaneously.
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Purpose:
• Blockchain: Mainly used for decentralized data storage, digital transactions, and
applications like cryptocurrencies and smart contracts.
• Quantum Computing: Primarily focused on solving complex problems
exponentially faster than classical computers, including cryptography,
optimization, and scientific simulations.
2. Challenges:
• Blockchain: Scalability, energy consumption, and interoperability are some of
the key challenges.
• Quantum Computing: Hardware complexity, quantum error correction, and
quantum algorithm development are major obstacles.
Similarities:
1. Security:
• Both technologies prioritize security. Blockchain uses cryptographic techniques
for secure transactions, while quantum computing faces challenges in breaking
classical cryptographic algorithms.
2. Emerging Technologies:
• Both are cutting-edge technologies with the potential to revolutionize various
industries and scientific research.
3. Ongoing Research:
• Both fields are actively researched, with advancements and innovations
continuing to emerge.
While blockchain and quantum computing have distinct purposes and challenges, they share
common interests in addressing security concerns and pushing the boundaries of
technological capabilities. As these fields progress, they may intersect in future applications,
leading to even more transformative possibilities.
Future Prospects and Implications for Industries in Blockchain and Quantum Computing:
Blockchain:
Quantum Computing:
1. Drug Discovery: Quantum simulations can revolutionize the drug discovery process,
accelerating the identification of new drugs and improving personalized medicine.
2. Material Science: Quantum simulations can lead to the discovery of new materials
with desirable properties, impacting industries like aerospace, electronics, and
renewable energy.
3. Optimization: Quantum computing can solve complex optimization problems in
logistics, supply chain management, and transportation, improving efficiency and
reducing costs.
4. Cryptography: Quantum-safe cryptographic solutions will be crucial to protect
sensitive data and communications from quantum attacks.
5. AI and Machine Learning: Quantum computing can enhance machine learning
models, leading to breakthroughs in AI applications like pattern recognition and
natural language processing.
Future Implications:
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