An Introduction to Quantum Computing

​Quantum computing is a type of computing that uses quantum bits, or qubits, instead of classical bits used in classical computing. Qubits are quantum mechanical systems, such as atoms or electrons, that can be in multiple states at once, allowing for multiple calculations to be performed simultaneously.

​In classical computing, information is stored as bits, which can have a value of either 0 or 1. In contrast, qubits can exist in a superposition of both 0 and 1 at the same time, allowing for more complex calculations to be performed simultaneously.

Quantum computing has the potential to solve complex problems that are currently beyond the capabilities of classical computers. Here are some of the most promising use cases for quantum computing:
​

• Optimization: Quantum computers can be used to optimize complex systems, such as financial portfolios, supply chains, and transportation networks. This is because quantum algorithms can quickly calculate the best possible outcomes among a large number of possibilities.
• Machine learning: Quantum computing can be used to train machine learning models much faster than classical computing. This is because quantum computers can quickly process large amounts of data in parallel.
• Cryptography: Quantum computers can be used to break many of the encryption techniques used to secure digital communications today. However, quantum computers can also be used to create new, more secure encryption techniques that are resistant to quantum attacks.
• Material design: Quantum computing can be used to design new materials with specific properties. This is because quantum computers can quickly simulate the behavior of atoms and molecules, allowing researchers to design materials with specific chemical and physical properties.
• Chemical simulation: Quantum computers can be used to simulate the behavior of complex chemical systems, such as proteins and drugs. This is because quantum mechanics plays a key role in these systems, and classical computers struggle to simulate them accurately.
• Financial modeling: Quantum computing can be used to quickly calculate the value of financial derivatives and other complex financial instruments. This is because quantum algorithms can quickly simulate many possible market scenarios at once.

These are just a few of the many potential use cases for quantum computing. As the technology develops, it is likely that many new use cases will emerge.

Quantum computing hardware is available today and being used by hundreds of thousands of developers. Indeed, ever-more-powerful superconducting quantum processors are being developed at regular intervals, alongside crucial advances in software and quantum-classical orchestration. This work drives toward the quantum computing speed and capacity necessary to change the world.  ​