{"id":341936,"date":"2024-10-28T17:58:33","date_gmt":"2024-10-28T17:58:33","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/?post_type=definition&#038;p=341936"},"modified":"2024-10-28T19:38:03","modified_gmt":"2024-10-28T19:38:03","slug":"quantum-computing","status":"publish","type":"definition","link":"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/quantum-computing","title":{"rendered":"Quantum Computing"},"content":{"rendered":"<h2><span id=\"what_is_quantum_computing\">What is Quantum Computing?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Quantum computing is a rapidly emerging field in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/592\/computer-science\">computer science<\/a> that focuses on how to use the unique properties of quantum mechanics to perform mathematical calculations and solve computational problems faster and more efficiently than classical computers that use <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/5495\/boolean\">Boolean logic<\/a>. It uses particles like electrons or photons to process complex information faster and more efficiently.<\/p>\n<p>Quantum mechanics is an area of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/research-and-development-rd\">research and development<\/a> (R&amp;D) that seeks to provide a mathematical framework for explaining a wide range of unique phenomena that only occur at the atomic and subatomic levels.<\/p>\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/is-quantum-computing-for-real\/2\/34913\">goal of quantum computing<\/a> is to apply quantum theories to enhance <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/6597\/computing\">computing<\/a> at a core level, allowing computers to process, compare, order, and contrast massive amounts of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/807\/data\">data<\/a> at insane speeds.<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/What-is-Quantum-Computing-300x184.jpg\" alt=\"What is Quantum Computing\" width=\"1200\" height=\"734\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-342236\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/What-is-Quantum-Computing-300x184.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/What-is-Quantum-Computing-1024x627.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/What-is-Quantum-Computing-768x470.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/What-is-Quantum-Computing-1536x940.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/What-is-Quantum-Computing-1200x734.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/What-is-Quantum-Computing-1980x1211.jpg 1980w, https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/What-is-Quantum-Computing.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/p>\n<div class=\"su-note\"  style=\"border-color:#dddddd;border-radius:3px;-moz-border-radius:3px;-webkit-border-radius:3px;\"><div class=\"su-note-inner su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\" style=\"background-color:#f7f7f7;border-color:#ffffff;color:#333333;border-radius:3px;-moz-border-radius:3px;-webkit-border-radius:3px;\">\n<h2><span id=\"key_takeaways\">Key Takeaways<\/span><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li>Quantum computing is a rapidly emerging field in computer science.<\/li>\n<li>It uses quantum mechanics to perform mathematical calculations and solve computational problems.<\/li>\n<li>Schr\u00f6dinger&#8217;s Cat is a famous thought experiment in quantum mechanics.<\/li>\n<li>Quantum computers are used to make artificial intelligence outputs more accurate.<\/li>\n<li>Quantum computers use algorithms to manipulate quantum bits (qubits).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<div>\n    <section class=\"toc-sticky w-100 bg-white \">\n        <div class=\"toc-sticky__container container\">\n            <div class=\"toc-sticky__open d-flex align-items-end\" data-bs-toggle=\"collapse\"\n                 aria-controls=\"multiCollapse1\"\n                 data-bs-target=\"#multiCollapse1\">\n                <button\n                        class=\"btn btn-primary collapse-action-btn p-1 rounded-circle\"\n                        type=\"button\"\n                >\n                    <i class=\"icon-chevron-up\"><\/i>\n                <\/button>\n                <span id=\"toc-current-title\" class=\"d-flex align-items-center\">\n                    Table of Contents\n                <\/span>\n                <span class=\"toc-main-title-permanent\">Table of Contents<\/span>\n            <\/div>\n            <div\n                    class=\"collapse my-3\"\n                    id=\"multiCollapse1\"\n            >\n                <ol class=\"StepProgress\">\n                                                                        <li class=\"StepProgress-item current\">\n                                                <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                            <a data-id=\"what_is_quantum_computing\"\n                               onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"what_is_quantum_computing\")\n                               class=\"StepProgress-item__link\" data-level=\"2\">What is Quantum Computing?<\/a>\n                                                    <\/div>\n                                                <\/li>\n                                                                        <li class=\"StepProgress-item\">\n                                                <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                            <a data-id=\"key_takeaways\"\n                               onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"key_takeaways\")\n                               class=\"StepProgress-item__link\" data-level=\"2\">Key Takeaways<\/a>\n                                                    <\/div>\n                                                <\/li>\n                                                                        <li class=\"StepProgress-item\">\n                                                <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                            <a data-id=\"how_quantum_computing_works\"\n                               onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"how_quantum_computing_works\")\n                               class=\"StepProgress-item__link\" data-level=\"2\">How Quantum Computing Works<\/a>\n                                                    <\/div>\n                                                <\/li>\n                                                                        <li class=\"StepProgress-item\">\n                                                <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                            <a data-id=\"quantum_computing_components\"\n                               onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"quantum_computing_components\")\n                               class=\"StepProgress-item__link\" data-level=\"2\">Quantum Computing Components<\/a>\n                                                    <\/div>\n                                                <\/li>\n                                                                        <li class=\"StepProgress-item\">\n                                                <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                            <a data-id=\"key_principles_of_quantum_computing\"\n                               onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"key_principles_of_quantum_computing\")\n                               class=\"StepProgress-item__link\" data-level=\"2\">Key Principles of Quantum Computing<\/a>\n                                                    <\/div>\n                                                <\/li>\n                                                                        <li class=\"StepProgress-item\">\n                                                <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                            <a data-id=\"schrodingers_cat\"\n                               onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"schrodingers_cat\")\n                               class=\"StepProgress-item__link\" data-level=\"2\">Schr\u00f6dinger's Cat<\/a>\n                                                    <\/div>\n                                                <\/li>\n                                                                        <li class=\"StepProgress-item\">\n                                                <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                            <a data-id=\"decoherence_and_the_high_cost_of_quantum_computing\"\n                               onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"decoherence_and_the_high_cost_of_quantum_computing\")\n                               class=\"StepProgress-item__link\" data-level=\"2\">Decoherence and the High Cost of Quantum Computing<\/a>\n                                                    <\/div>\n                                                <\/li>\n                                                                        <li class=\"StepProgress-item\">\n                                                <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                            <a data-id=\"quantum_computing_vs_classical_computing\"\n                               onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"quantum_computing_vs_classical_computing\")\n                               class=\"StepProgress-item__link\" data-level=\"2\">Quantum Computing vs. Classical Computing<\/a>\n                                                    <\/div>\n                                                <\/li>\n                                                                        <li class=\"StepProgress-item\">\n                                                <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                            <a data-id=\"how_is_quantum_computing_being_used_today\"\n                               onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"how_is_quantum_computing_being_used_today\")\n                               class=\"StepProgress-item__link\" data-level=\"2\">How is Quantum Computing Being Used Today?<\/a>\n                                                    <\/div>\n                                                <\/li>\n                                                                        <li class=\"StepProgress-item\">\n                                                <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                            <a data-id=\"the_bottom_line\"\n                               onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"the_bottom_line\")\n                               class=\"StepProgress-item__link\" data-level=\"2\">The Bottom Line<\/a>\n                                                    <\/div>\n                                                <\/li>\n                                                                        <li class=\"StepProgress-item\">\n                                                <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                            <a data-id=\"faqs\"\n                               onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"faqs\")\n                               class=\"StepProgress-item__link\" data-level=\"2\">FAQs<\/a>\n                                                    <\/div>\n                                                <\/li>\n                                                                        <li class=\"StepProgress-item\">\n                                                <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                            <a data-id=\"references\"\n                               onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"references\")\n                               class=\"StepProgress-item__link\" data-level=\"2\">References<\/a>\n                                                    <\/div>\n                                                <\/li>\n                                    <\/ol>\n                <div class=\"toc-sticky__container__disperse\"><\/div>\n                <div class=\"toc-sticky__btn-top justify-content-center\">\n                    <button class=\"btn btn-link d-flex align-items-center\" onclick={btnTop()}><p>Show Full Guide<\/p><img decoding=\"async\"\n                                src=\"\/wp-content\/plugins\/table-of-contents\/assets\/images\/arrow-up-circle.svg\"\n                                alt=\"arrow-up-circle\">\n                    <\/button>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/section>\n    <div class=\"toc-sticky-list\">\n        <div class=\"toc-sticky__container container\">\n            <div class=\"toc-sticky__open d-flex align-items-end\" data-bs-toggle=\"collapse\" aria-controls=\"multiCollapse2\" data-bs-target=\"#multiCollapse2\">\n                <button class=\"btn btn-primary collapse-action-btn p-1 rounded-circle\"\n                        type=\"button\">\n                    <i class=\"icon-chevron-up up\"><\/i>\n                <\/button>\n                <span id=\"toc-current-title\" class=\"d-flex align-items-center\">\n                    Table of Contents\n                <\/span>\n            <\/div>\n            <div  class=\"collapse my-3\" id=\"multiCollapse2\">\n                <ol class=\"StepProgress\">\n                    \t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t                                                     <li class=\"StepProgress-item current \">\n                                                    <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                                <a data-id=\"what_is_quantum_computing\"\n                                   onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"what_is_quantum_computing\")\n                                   class=\"StepProgress-item__link\"\n                                   data-level=\"2\">What is Quantum Computing?<\/a>\n                                                            <\/div>\n                                                    <\/li>\n                    \t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t                                                     <li class=\"StepProgress-item \">\n                                                    <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                                <a data-id=\"key_takeaways\"\n                                   onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"key_takeaways\")\n                                   class=\"StepProgress-item__link\"\n                                   data-level=\"2\">Key Takeaways<\/a>\n                                                            <\/div>\n                                                    <\/li>\n                    \t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t                                                     <li class=\"StepProgress-item \">\n                                                    <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                                <a data-id=\"how_quantum_computing_works\"\n                                   onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"how_quantum_computing_works\")\n                                   class=\"StepProgress-item__link\"\n                                   data-level=\"2\">How Quantum Computing Works<\/a>\n                                                            <\/div>\n                                                    <\/li>\n                    \t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t <span class=\"show_moretoc\">Show Full Guide<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t\t  \t\t\t\t\t                                                      <li class=\"StepProgress-item ms_hidetoc\">\n                                                    <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                                <a data-id=\"quantum_computing_components\"\n                                   onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"quantum_computing_components\")\n                                   class=\"StepProgress-item__link\"\n                                   data-level=\"2\">Quantum Computing Components<\/a>\n                                                            <\/div>\n                                                    <\/li>\n                    \t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t\t  \t\t\t\t\t                                                      <li class=\"StepProgress-item ms_hidetoc\">\n                                                    <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                                <a data-id=\"key_principles_of_quantum_computing\"\n                                   onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"key_principles_of_quantum_computing\")\n                                   class=\"StepProgress-item__link\"\n                                   data-level=\"2\">Key Principles of Quantum Computing<\/a>\n                                                            <\/div>\n                                                    <\/li>\n                    \t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t\t  \t\t\t\t\t                                                      <li class=\"StepProgress-item ms_hidetoc\">\n                                                    <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                                <a data-id=\"schrodingers_cat\"\n                                   onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"schrodingers_cat\")\n                                   class=\"StepProgress-item__link\"\n                                   data-level=\"2\">Schr\u00f6dinger's Cat<\/a>\n                                                            <\/div>\n                                                    <\/li>\n                    \t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t\t  \t\t\t\t\t                                                      <li class=\"StepProgress-item ms_hidetoc\">\n                                                    <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                                <a data-id=\"decoherence_and_the_high_cost_of_quantum_computing\"\n                                   onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"decoherence_and_the_high_cost_of_quantum_computing\")\n                                   class=\"StepProgress-item__link\"\n                                   data-level=\"2\">Decoherence and the High Cost of Quantum Computing<\/a>\n                                                            <\/div>\n                                                    <\/li>\n                    \t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t\t  \t\t\t\t\t                                                      <li class=\"StepProgress-item ms_hidetoc\">\n                                                    <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                                <a data-id=\"quantum_computing_vs_classical_computing\"\n                                   onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"quantum_computing_vs_classical_computing\")\n                                   class=\"StepProgress-item__link\"\n                                   data-level=\"2\">Quantum Computing vs. Classical Computing<\/a>\n                                                            <\/div>\n                                                    <\/li>\n                    \t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t\t  \t\t\t\t\t                                                      <li class=\"StepProgress-item ms_hidetoc\">\n                                                    <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                                <a data-id=\"how_is_quantum_computing_being_used_today\"\n                                   onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"how_is_quantum_computing_being_used_today\")\n                                   class=\"StepProgress-item__link\"\n                                   data-level=\"2\">How is Quantum Computing Being Used Today?<\/a>\n                                                            <\/div>\n                                                    <\/li>\n                    \t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t\t  \t\t\t\t\t                                                      <li class=\"StepProgress-item ms_hidetoc\">\n                                                    <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                                <a data-id=\"the_bottom_line\"\n                                   onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"the_bottom_line\")\n                                   class=\"StepProgress-item__link\"\n                                   data-level=\"2\">The Bottom Line<\/a>\n                                                            <\/div>\n                                                    <\/li>\n                    \t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t\t  \t\t\t\t\t                                                      <li class=\"StepProgress-item ms_hidetoc\">\n                                                    <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                                <a data-id=\"faqs\"\n                                   onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"faqs\")\n                                   class=\"StepProgress-item__link\"\n                                   data-level=\"2\">FAQs<\/a>\n                                                            <\/div>\n                                                    <\/li>\n                    \t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t\t  \t\t\t\t\t                                                      <li class=\"StepProgress-item ms_hidetoc\">\n                                                    <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                                <a data-id=\"references\"\n                                   onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"references\")\n                                   class=\"StepProgress-item__link\"\n                                   data-level=\"2\">References<\/a>\n                                                            <\/div>\n                                         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pageLegendCollapse);\n\tjQuery('span.show_moretoc').click(function(){\n\t\tjQuery('span.show_moretoc').hide();\n\t   jQuery('.ms_hidetoc').show();\n\t});\n    });\n\n    \/\/ When the user clicks on the button, scroll to the top of the document\n    function btnTop() {\n        const pageLegend = document.querySelector('#multiCollapse1');\n        document.querySelector('html').classList.remove('overflow-hidden');\n        pageLegend.classList.remove('overflow-auto');\n        pageLegend.style.height = 'auto';\n        window.scrollTo({\n            top: 0,\n            behavior: 'smooth'\n        });\n    }\n\n    const handleScrollToTitle = (id) => {\n        const el = document.getElementById(id);\n        const headerHeightDifference = window.innerWidth < 992 ? -30 : -15;\n        window.scrollTo({\n            top: el.offsetTop - 60 - headerHeightDifference - 10,\n        });\n    }\n<\/script>\n\n<h2><span id=\"how_quantum_computing_works\">How Quantum Computing Works<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Quantum computing is explained best by comparing it to classical computers. Unlike computers that use binary calculations, quantum computers perform complex computations with qubits. Quantum computers are faster because they operate fundamentally differently.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Classical computers<\/strong> perform mathematical operations using <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/3739\/algorithm\">algorithms<\/a> to manipulate <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/2678\/binary-digit-bit\">binary bits<\/a>, represented by 0s or 1s, producing deterministic results \u2013 meaning the same conditions will always produce the same outcome. In contrast, <strong>quantum computers<\/strong> use algorithms to manipulate qubits.<\/p>\n<div class=\"su-note\"  style=\"border-color:#e5e54c;border-radius:3px;-moz-border-radius:3px;-webkit-border-radius:3px;\"><div class=\"su-note-inner su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\" style=\"background-color:#FFFF66;border-color:#ffffff;color:#333333;border-radius:3px;-moz-border-radius:3px;-webkit-border-radius:3px;\">\n<p><strong>What is a qubit?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Short for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/2742\/quantum-bit-qubit\"><i>quantum bits<\/i><\/a>, it is the smallest unit of quantum information, also represented by 0s and 1s, but in a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/hyperdimensional-computing-hdc\">superposition<\/a> of both states simultaneously. Instead of a single outcome, quantum algorithms produce a probability distribution for all possible outcomes.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<p>To resolve the probability distribution and determine a single value, a mathematical function called a <strong>wave function<\/strong> captures information about all the possible states the system can be in \u2014 and all the probabilities associated with each state. Repeated interactions cause the wave function to collapse, producing one specific outcome.<\/p>\n<h2><span id=\"quantum_computing_components\">Quantum Computing Components<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Core <a href=\"https:\/\/quantumzeitgeist.com\/what-are-the-components-of-a-quantum-computer\/#core-components-of-quantum-computers\" target=\"_blank\">components of a quantum computer<\/a> include the quantum <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/28254\/processor\">processor<\/a> which includes qubits, typically made from <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/15029\/superconducting-quantum-interference-device-squid\">superconducting<\/a> materials. Control electronics manipulate the qubits and perform quantum operations, while sophisticated <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/4356\/software\">software<\/a> manages the complex quantum algorithms and controls the processor.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Key quantum computing components<\/strong> include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Qubits<\/li>\n<li>Quantum processor<\/li>\n<li>Quantum software<\/li>\n<li>Quantum control electronics<\/li>\n<li>Cryogenic system<\/li>\n<li>Magnetic shielding<\/li>\n<li>Error correction systems<\/li>\n<li>Isolation systems<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span id=\"key_principles_of_quantum_computing\">Key Principles of Quantum Computing<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Principles-of-Quantum-Computing-227x300.jpg\" alt=\"Principles of Quantum Computing\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1584\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-342233\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Principles-of-Quantum-Computing-227x300.jpg 227w, https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Principles-of-Quantum-Computing-776x1024.jpg 776w, https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Principles-of-Quantum-Computing-768x1013.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Principles-of-Quantum-Computing-1164x1536.jpg 1164w, https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Principles-of-Quantum-Computing-1552x2048.jpg 1552w, https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Principles-of-Quantum-Computing-1200x1583.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Principles-of-Quantum-Computing-1980x2612.jpg 1980w, https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Principles-of-Quantum-Computing-scaled.jpg 1940w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>The key principles of quantum mechanics include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Wave-particle duality:<\/strong> Particles that act as both waves and particles<\/li>\n<li><strong>Quantization:<\/strong> Physical properties exist in discrete values<\/li>\n<li><strong>Superposition:<\/strong> A quantum system can exist in multiple states simultaneously<\/li>\n<li><strong>Entanglement:<\/strong> Linked particles instantly influence each other, regardless of distance<\/li>\n<li><strong>Uncertainty principle:<\/strong> Impossible to know both position and momentum precisely<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span id=\"schrodingers_cat\">Schr\u00f6dinger&#8217;s Cat<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Schr\u00f6dinger&#8217;s Cat is a famous quantum mechanics thought experiment illustrating superposition and wave function collapse. Proposed by the Austrian physicist Erwin Schr\u00f6dinger in 1935, it explains unique properties of quantum physics.<\/p>\n<p>The experiment imagines a cat in a sealed box with a vial of poison and a radioactive atom that may or may not decay. If the atom decays, it releases the poison, killing the cat; if not, the cat lives.<\/p>\n<p>According to the rules of quantum mechanics, the entire system \u2013 cat and atom \u2013 has a single wave function representing all possible outcomes.<\/p>\n<p>This wave function describes a superposition of two states: one where the atom decays, releasing poison, and killing the cat, and one in which the atom doesn&#8217;t decay, keeping the cat alive.<\/p>\n<p>Schr\u00f6dinger explained that as long as the box remains closed, the cat exists in a superposition of two states, entangled with the atom&#8217;s quantum state.<\/p>\n<p>When the box is opened, observing the system causes the wave function to collapse, and the probability distribution will resolve into one outcome based on probabilities. The cat will be either alive or dead, depending on the atom&#8217;s state.<\/p>\n<p>Schr\u00f6dinger&#8217;s experiment illustrates that (1) Quantum systems exist in multiple states simultaneously until observed, causing the wave function to collapse, and (2) quantum measurements are inherently probabilistic.<\/p>\n<h2><span id=\"decoherence_and_the_high_cost_of_quantum_computing\">Decoherence and the High Cost of Quantum Computing<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Quantum computing is <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/is-quantum-computing-for-real\/2\/34913\">costly and error-prone<\/a> because interactions with the external environment can cause entanglement that mimics wave function collapse, making quantum systems act more like a classical system. This phenomenon is known as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/34024\/quantum-decoherence\">decoherence<\/a>, hinders qubits from maintaining superpositions.<\/p>\n<p>To mitigate decoherence, quantum computing systems require highly controlled and isolated environments to shield qubits from disturbances such as temperature fluctuations and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/1738\/electromagnetic-interference-emi\">electromagnetic interference<\/a>. Cryogenic systems cool qubits to close to absolute zero, while advanced shielding techniques protect them from external influences.<\/p>\n<p>Without effective decoherence control, the computational power of quantum systems is significantly reduced. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/24161\/error-correction-code--ecc\">Error correction codes<\/a> (ECCs) and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/16093\/faraday-cage\">isolation techniques<\/a> are crucial concerns when it comes to making quantum computing practical and cost-effective.<\/p>\n<h2><span id=\"quantum_computing_vs_classical_computing\">Quantum Computing vs. Classical Computing<\/span><\/h2>\n<div class=\"su-row\"><div class=\"su-column su-column-size-1-2\"><div class=\"su-column-inner su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\">\n<strong>Quantum computing<\/strong><br \/>\n<div class=\"su-list\" style=\"margin-left:0px\">\n<ul>\n<li><i class=\"sui sui-check-circle\" style=\"color:#3CB371\"><\/i> Uses qubits<\/li>\n<li><i class=\"sui sui-check-circle\" style=\"color:#3CB371\"><\/i> Handle complex calculations faster<\/li>\n<li><i class=\"sui sui-check-circle\" style=\"color:#3CB371\"><\/i> Operates in superposition<\/li>\n<li><i class=\"sui sui-check-circle\" style=\"color:#3CB371\"><\/i> More error-prone<\/li>\n<li><i class=\"sui sui-check-circle\" style=\"color:#3CB371\"><\/i> Requires cryogenics systems<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"su-column su-column-size-1-2 pros_icons_\"><div class=\"su-column-inner su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\">\n<strong>Classical computing<\/strong><br \/>\n<div class=\"su-list\" style=\"margin-left:0px\">\n<ul>\n<li><i class=\"sui sui-check-circle\" style=\"color:#e31f28\"><\/i> Uses bits<\/li>\n<li><i class=\"sui sui-check-circle\" style=\"color:#e31f28\"><\/i> Sequential processing is slower<\/li>\n<li><i class=\"sui sui-check-circle\" style=\"color:#e31f28\"><\/i> Operates in binary<\/li>\n<li><i class=\"sui sui-check-circle\" style=\"color:#e31f28\"><\/i> Classical is stable<\/li>\n<li><i class=\"sui sui-check-circle\" style=\"color:#e31f28\"><\/i> Works at room temperature<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<h2><span id=\"how_is_quantum_computing_being_used_today\">How is Quantum Computing Being Used Today?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>While there&#8217;s a lot of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/the-challenge-of-quantum-computing\/2\/32537\">excitement around the potential of quantum computing<\/a>, it&#8217;s still in its early stages. Many practical applications of using quantum mechanics to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/34023\/quantum-advantage\">improve upon classical computing<\/a> are still in the early stages and in research labs.<\/p>\n<p>What is quantum computing used for today? It has many applications across a wide range of fields. Examples include:<\/p>\n<div class=\"su-accordion su-u-trim\">\n<div class=\"su-spoiler su-spoiler-style-fancy su-spoiler-icon-plus\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\" data-anchor-in-url=\"no\"><div class=\"su-spoiler-title\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\"><span class=\"su-spoiler-icon\"><\/span><strong>Agriculture<\/strong><\/div><div class=\"su-spoiler-content su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\"> Quantum systems optimize crop yields by <a href=\"https:\/\/phys.org\/news\/2023-07-quantum-circuit-nucleotides.html\" target=\"_blank\">analyzing plant DNA sequences<\/a>. <\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"su-spoiler su-spoiler-style-fancy su-spoiler-icon-plus su-spoiler-closed\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\" data-anchor-in-url=\"no\"><div class=\"su-spoiler-title\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\"><span class=\"su-spoiler-icon\"><\/span><strong>Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)<\/strong><\/div><div class=\"su-spoiler-content su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\"> Quantum computers <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/34634\/quantum-ml\">accelerate machine learning algorithms<\/a> to make artificial intelligence outputs more accurate. <\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"su-spoiler su-spoiler-style-fancy su-spoiler-icon-plus su-spoiler-closed\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\" data-anchor-in-url=\"no\"><div class=\"su-spoiler-title\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\"><span class=\"su-spoiler-icon\"><\/span><strong>Climate modeling<\/strong><\/div><div class=\"su-spoiler-content su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\"> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/2\/29425\/development\/web-development\/5-cool-things-googles-quantum-computer-could-do\">Modeling complex environmental systems<\/a>, which currently demand significant computational power, could be revolutionized by quantum computing. <\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"su-spoiler su-spoiler-style-fancy su-spoiler-icon-plus su-spoiler-closed\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\" data-anchor-in-url=\"no\"><div class=\"su-spoiler-title\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\"><span class=\"su-spoiler-icon\"><\/span><strong>Cryptography<\/strong><\/div><div class=\"su-spoiler-content su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\"> Quantum computers could potentially <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/quantum-cryptography-vs-quantum-hacking-a-cat-and-mouse-game\/2\/34161\">break many of the cryptographic schemes currently in use<\/a>, necessitating the development of new quantum-safe <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/5507\/encryption\">encryption<\/a> techniques. <\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"su-spoiler su-spoiler-style-fancy su-spoiler-icon-plus su-spoiler-closed\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\" data-anchor-in-url=\"no\"><div class=\"su-spoiler-title\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\"><span class=\"su-spoiler-icon\"><\/span><strong>Financial modeling<\/strong><\/div><div class=\"su-spoiler-content su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\"> Quantum computing optimizes trading strategies, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/25836\/it-risk-management\">risk management<\/a>, and financial modeling. <\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"su-spoiler su-spoiler-style-fancy su-spoiler-icon-plus su-spoiler-closed\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\" data-anchor-in-url=\"no\"><div class=\"su-spoiler-title\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\"><span class=\"su-spoiler-icon\"><\/span><strong>Materials science<\/strong><\/div><div class=\"su-spoiler-content su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\"> Quantum computing could revolutionize materials science, including discovering new <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/9582\/superconductor\">superconductors<\/a>. <\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"su-spoiler su-spoiler-style-fancy su-spoiler-icon-plus su-spoiler-closed\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\" data-anchor-in-url=\"no\"><div class=\"su-spoiler-title\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\"><span class=\"su-spoiler-icon\"><\/span><strong>Optimization and efficiency<\/strong><\/div><div class=\"su-spoiler-content su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\"> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/33666\/quantum-as-a-service-qaas\">Quantum-as-a-Service<\/a> (QaaS) delivery models are being used for tasks such as traffic optimization, supply chain logistics, and financial modeling. <\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"su-spoiler su-spoiler-style-fancy su-spoiler-icon-plus su-spoiler-closed\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\" data-anchor-in-url=\"no\"><div class=\"su-spoiler-title\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\"><span class=\"su-spoiler-icon\"><\/span><strong>Pharmaceutical research<\/strong><\/div><div class=\"su-spoiler-content su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\"> Potentially, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/is-quantum-computing-for-real\/2\/34913\">quantum computing could significantly accelerate R&amp;D<\/a> by making target identification, drug design, and toxicity testing less dependent on trial and error. <\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"su-spoiler su-spoiler-style-fancy su-spoiler-icon-plus su-spoiler-closed\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\" data-anchor-in-url=\"no\"><div class=\"su-spoiler-title\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\"><span class=\"su-spoiler-icon\"><\/span><strong>Chemistry<\/strong><\/div><div class=\"su-spoiler-content su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\">\nQuantum computers could provide undiscovered solutions for mitigating dangerous or destructive chemical byproducts, leading to improved processes for combating climate-threatening emissions. <\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2><span id=\"the_bottom_line\">The Bottom Line<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>What is the definition of quantum computing? In simple terms, quantum computing is a branch of computer science that uses principles of quantum mechanics to perform calculations more efficiently than classical computers. It is used for complex problems in fields like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/1770\/cryptography\">cryptography<\/a>, chemistry, and pharmaceuticals. However, current quantum systems face challenges; they are expensive, prone to errors, and highly sensitive to environmental factors, requiring sophisticated control and cryogenic systems to prevent decoherence.<\/p>\n<p>Though still largely experimental, as the technology matures and quantum computers become more accessible, it&#8217;s expected that quantum computing will continue to impact a broad range of industry concerns.<\/p>\n<h2><span id=\"faqs\">FAQs<\/span><\/h2>\n<div class=\"man_faq_sec\" itemscope itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/FAQPage\"><\/time><section class=\"ms_faq ms_card \" ><div itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\"><div class=\"accordionButton\"><h3 itemprop=\"name\">What is quantum computing in simple terms?<\/h3> <\/div>\n<div class=\"accordionContent\" itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\" style=\"display:none;\"><p itemprop=\"text\">The quantum computing meaning refers to an area of computer science that uses the principles of quantum mechanics to perform calculations, using particles like electrons or photons to process complex information faster and more efficiently.<\/p>\r\n                <\/div><\/div><\/section>\n<section class=\"ms_faq ms_card \" ><div itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\"><div class=\"accordionButton\"><h3 itemprop=\"name\">What is a real-life example of quantum computing?<\/h3> <\/div>\n<div class=\"accordionContent\" itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\" style=\"display:none;\"><p itemprop=\"text\">Researchers are using quantum computing to help model complex molecular and chemical reactions, which can potentially lead to the discovery of new drugs and improve healthcare.<\/p>\r\n                <\/div><\/div><\/section>\n<section class=\"ms_faq ms_card \" ><div itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\"><div class=\"accordionButton\"><h3 itemprop=\"name\">What is the difference between AI and quantum computing?<\/h3> <\/div>\n<div class=\"accordionContent\" itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\" style=\"display:none;\"><p itemprop=\"text\">AI creates systems to simulate human intelligence. Quantum computing uses quantum mechanics principles to solve complex problems faster and more efficiently.<\/p>\r\n                <\/div><\/div><\/section>\n<section class=\"ms_faq ms_card \" ><div itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\"><div class=\"accordionButton\"><h3 itemprop=\"name\">What can quantum computers do today?<\/h3> <\/div>\n<div class=\"accordionContent\" itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\" style=\"display:none;\"><p itemprop=\"text\">Quantum computing systems can be used to optimize crop yields and supply chain logistics.<\/p>\r\n                <\/div><\/div><\/section>\n<section class=\"ms_faq ms_card \" ><div itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\"><div class=\"accordionButton\"><h3 itemprop=\"name\">How do you explain quantum computing to a child?<\/h3> <\/div>\n<div class=\"accordionContent\" itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\" style=\"display:none;\"><p itemprop=\"text\">Dr. Talia Gershon <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ibm.com\/blogs\/nordic-msp\/quantum-computing-kids-understand\/\" target=\"_blank\">from IBM Research<\/a> describes quantum computing as &#8220;a really special kind of computer that calculates things in a totally different way than how your computer calculates things.&#8221; She explains that unlike regular computers, which solve problems step-by-step, quantum computers use principles like superposition and entanglement to consider many possibilities at once.<\/p>\r\n                <\/div><\/div><\/section>\n<section class=\"ms_faq ms_card \" ><div itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\"><div class=\"accordionButton\"><h3 itemprop=\"name\">What are the 5 main components of quantum computing?<\/h3> <\/div>\n<div class=\"accordionContent\" itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\" style=\"display:none;\"><p itemprop=\"text\">The 5 main components of quantum computing include wave-particle duality, quantization, superposition, entanglement, and uncertainty principle.<\/p>\r\n                <\/div><\/div><\/section>\n<section class=\"ms_faq ms_card \" ><div itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\"><div class=\"accordionButton\"><h3 itemprop=\"name\">What are the basic concepts of quantum computing?<\/h3> <\/div>\n<div class=\"accordionContent\" itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\" style=\"display:none;\"><p itemprop=\"text\">Basic concepts of quantum computing center on principles from quantum mechanics and include superposition \u2013 the ability for qubits to be in multiple states simultaneously, combined with entanglement and interference.<\/p>\r\n                <\/div><\/div><\/section>\n<div class=\"reference-content\">\n<div class=\"reference-heading reference-content-collapsible-heading\">\n<h2><span id=\"references\">References<\/span><\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"reference-content-body\">\n<ol>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/quantumzeitgeist.com\/what-are-the-components-of-a-quantum-computer\/#core-components-of-quantum-computers\" target=\"_blank\">What Are The Components Of A Quantum Computer?<\/a> (QuantumZeitgeist)<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/phys.org\/news\/2023-07-quantum-circuit-nucleotides.html\" target=\"_blank\">Researchers use quantum circuit to identify single nucleotides<\/a> (PHYS)<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ibm.com\/blogs\/nordic-msp\/quantum-computing-kids-understand\/\" target=\"_blank\">Quantum computing explained so kids understand &#8211; IBM Nordic Blog<\/a> (IBM)<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>What is Quantum Computing? Quantum computing is a rapidly emerging field in computer science that focuses on how to use the unique properties of quantum mechanics to perform mathematical calculations and solve computational problems faster and more efficiently than classical computers that use Boolean logic. It uses particles like electrons or photons to process complex [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":286940,"featured_media":342234,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_lmt_disableupdate":"","_lmt_disable":"","om_disable_all_campaigns":false,"footnotes":""},"definitioncat":[241],"class_list":["post-341936","definition","type-definition","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","definitioncat-computer-science"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v24.2 (Yoast SEO v24.5) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>What is Quantum Computing? Definition, Components &amp; How It Works<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Quantum computing uses quantum mechanics to perform calculations and solve problems faster than classical computers. Learn the full quantum computing meaning here.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"noindex, follow\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Quantum Computing\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Quantum computing uses quantum mechanics to perform calculations and solve problems faster than classical computers. 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