Quantum computers, once fully scaled, can lead to breakthroughs in many areas – medicine, finance, architecture, logistics.
First, it’s important to understand why quantum computers are better than the ones we’ve been using for years:
In conventional electronic devices, memory consists of bits with only one value, either 0 or 1. In quantum computing, a quantum bit (qubit) displays both values in different degrees at the same time. This is called quantum superposition. These ubiquitous states of each qubit are then used in complex calculations, which read like ordinary bits: 0 and 1.
Since kwbits can store more information than ordinary pieces, it also means that quantum computers can process larger amounts of information. With four pieces, there are 16 possibilities, but only one at a time. However, with four kwbits in quantum superposition, you can calculate all 16 states at once. This means that four kwbits equals 65,500 ordinary pieces. Each quit added to the quantum computer system increases its power exponentially.
To put things in perspective, a top supercomputer can currently reach as much as a computer of five to 20 kwbit, but it is estimated that a quantum computer of 50 kwbit will be able to solve computer problems, which no other conventional device in any possible quantity can not solve of time.
This ‘quantum domination’ has been achieved many times so far. It is important to mention that this does not mean that the quantum computer can beat a traditional one in every task; it shines only in a limited set of tasks specially adapted to highlight its strengths. A quantum computer also has to overcome many obstacles before it can become a mainstream device.
But once that happens, computing power will boost the science and industries that benefit from it.
Large companies engaged in quantum computers in their respective industries include AT&T T,
Google Management Company Alphabet GOOG,
GOOGL,
IBM IBM,
and Microsoft MSFT,
Here are some industries that can benefit the most:
Quantum Chemistry
Quantum chemistry, also called molecular quantum mechanics, is a branch of chemistry that focuses on the application of quantum mechanics to chemical systems. Here, quantum computers help with the modeling of molecules, taking into account all their possible quantum states – an achievement that lies beyond the capabilities of conventional computers.
This in turn helps us to understand its properties, which are invaluable for new materials and medicine research.
Quantum Cryptography
Quantum cryptography, also known as quantum encryption, uses principles of quantum mechanics to facilitate the encryption and protection of encrypted data against tampering. By using the peculiar behavior of subatomic particles, it can be tampered with or tapped (via the Quantum Key Distribution method).
Quantum encryption is also used for the secure transfer of the key, which is based on the entanglement principle. Both methods are currently available, but due to their complexity and price, only governments and institutions that handle delicate data (especially in China and the US) can afford it for the time being.
Quantum Financing
Quantum finance is an interdisciplinary field of research that applies theories and methods developed by quantum physicists and economists to solve problems in finance. This especially includes complicated calculations, such as the prices of various financial instruments and other computer financing problems.
Some scientists argue that quantum pricing models will offer more accuracy than classic ones because they may consider market inefficiencies, disregarding classic models.
Quantum computing will also improve the analysis of large and unstructured datasets, which will improve decision-making across different areas – from better timely presentations to risk assessment. Many of these calculations require a quantum computer with thousands of qubits to solve, but as has been the case recently, it is not unrealistic to see that quantum computers reach this processing potential within a matter of years rather than decades.
Quantum artificial intelligence
Although the principles of quantum mechanics are still conceptually explored, it will help quantum computers achieve significantly greater speed and efficiency than is currently possible on classical computers when performing AI algorithms – this is especially true of machine learning.
Weather forecast
Current calculation models used in weather forecasts use dynamic variables, from air temperature, pressure and density to historical data and other factors that contribute to the creation of climate forecast models. Due to the limited processing power available, classical computers and even ordinary supercomputers are the bottlenecks that limit the speed and efficiency of forecasting calculations.
To predict extreme weather conditions and limit the loss of life and property, we need faster and more robust forecasting models. By utilizing the power of qubits, quantum computing can require the raw processing power to make it happen. Furthermore, machine learning offered by quantum AI can also improve these prediction models.
Despite the rapid progress, quantum computing is still in its infancy, but it is clearly a game changer capable of solving problems that were previously considered insurmountable for classical computers.
This power offers the most benefits, not only for science and medicine, but also for businesses and industries where fast data processing is important.
As a marketing specialist, I can see a huge benefit to my industry, but others, especially finance and cryptography, will no doubt find the quantum push for their decision-making processes and the quality of their final product very beneficial.
The real question is who is the first one to utilize this power and use quantum accounting as part of their unique value and competitive advantage? The race is underway.