STARLOG.COM        Qubits & Quantum Computers

"Quantum Computer VS Computer = Elon Musk VS YOU"

Sophia Xu
Updated: March. 17, 2024

Classical Computers: The Workhorses We Know

1. Bits and Bytes

• Basic Unit: Noob computers (AKA Your Computer) process data using bits. A bit can represent either a 0 or a 1. Easy, right? Well it's not really "THAT" easy. Read this blog post to find out how you're looking at ones and zeros.  Binary code: The Power Of 0&1 (sophiasstarlog.blogspot.com)
• Serial Processing: Classical computers execute operations sequentially—one task at a time. If you have multiple windows open, they are just switching pages very fast. Just like how your lamp is blinking when you turn it on. Your brain cant process information that fast.

2. Limited Compute Power

• Scalability: Classical computers have limitations in scaling up their computing power.
• Physical Conditions: They operate under less regulated physical conditions compared to quantum computers.

Quantum Computers: The Quantum Leap, Weee!

1. Qubits and Superposition

• Unit of Data: Quantum computers use qubits instead of bits. Qubits and bits might not sound different. But they don't have that much in common. See, we can use classical physics up to a point. Then it's called quantum mechanics. 
• In quantum mechanics, things... aren't really playing by the rules. For example, an electron could teleport from one side of a wall to the other side! Things can move just by looking at it! Read this blog post to know more! How Scientist Move Things By Looking At It (Heisenberg Uncertainty) (sophiasstarlog.blogspot.com)
• Superposition: Qubits can exist in multiple states simultaneously (both 0 and 1), thanks to a phenomenon called superposition. I know it sounds crazy. But do you really think it's crazier than moving something just by looking at it! Read this blog post! Superposition: The Quantum Phenomenon (sophiasstarlog.blogspot.com)
• Complexity: Groups of entangled qubits create multidimensional computational spaces, enabling more complex computations.

2. Quantum Gates and Measurement

• Quantum Gates: Quantum computers manipulate qubits using quantum gates. There is single qubit gates. They can flip the qubit from 0 to 1 while allowing superposition to occur. Double qubit gates can put 2 qubits together creating quantum entanglement. Read this blog post about how all of these crazy things work! Qubits=Bite 2.0. Quantum marvel (sophiasstarlog.blogspot.com)
• Measurement: Measurement alters the observed state of qubits.

Key Takeaways

• Potential Applications: Quantum computing holds promise in AI/ML, cybersecurity, modeling, and more.
• Early Stages: While quantum technology is still in its infancy, it’s essential to grasp its differences from classical computing.
• Prepare for the Future: As quantum computing develops, understanding its capabilities will be crucial for data centers and beyond.

In summary, classical computers are our familiar workhorses, while quantum computers operate in a realm of superposition and entanglement, promising revolutionary advancements. As we await widespread implementation, let’s keep our eyes on the quantum horizon! 🚀