Quantum computers are advanced computing devices that use the principles of quantum mechanics to perform calculations. Unlike classical computers, which process information using bits, quantum computers operate on qubits, which can take on multiple states simultaneously. As a result, quantum computers have the potential to solve highly complex problems, such as molecular simulations, optimisations, and cryptography problems, that are beyond the reach of classical machines.
Quantum Computers
Type of technology
Description of the technology
Basic elements
- Qubit: The basic unit of information in quantum computers whose state can be 0, 1, or a superposition of both states simultaneously.
- Quantum entanglement: A process that forms connections between qubits, increasing their ability to cooperate in solving complex problems.
- Quantum interference: A process that involves reinforcing the probability of correct results in quantum computing while suppressing incorrect answers.
- Decoherence: A process whereby quantum properties of qubits are lost, which is one of the main challenges in the design of quantum computers.
- Quantum algorithms: Special algorithms, such as Shor’s or Grover’s algorithm, that use quantum phenomena to speed up calculations compared to classical algorithms.
Industry usage
- Pharmaceutics: Quantum computers can simulate molecular interactions, accelerating the discovery of new drugs and therapies.
- Cryptography: Using quantum computers to develop new encryption methods resistant to quantum attacks.
- Logistics optimisation: Quantum computers can solve complex optimisation problems related to logistics and transport.
- Finance: The financial sector can use quantum computers to analyse markets and optimise investment portfolios.
- Materials science: Quantum computers can support research into new materials with unique physical and chemical properties.
Importance for the economy
Quantum computers have great potential to change many sectors of the economy, especially those that require advanced computing, such as pharmaceuticals, finance, materials science, and cryptography. These solutions can significantly accelerate the development of new drugs, materials, and technologies, opening up new opportunities in innovation and industrial development. Quantum computers can also support process optimisation in logistics, energy, and telecommunications, helping to increase efficiency and reduce operating costs.
Related technologies
Quantum Technologies
Technologies used in quantum computers also have applications in the development of more precise quantum sensors.
Artificial Intelligence
Quantum computers can accelerate the training of Artificial intelligence models by optimising complex calculations, such as processing large data sets.
Cybersecurity
Quantum computers have the potential to break current cryptographic systems, which forces the development of new quantum-secure encryption methods.
Cloud Computing
Cloud technology provides on-demand access to quantum computers, enabling companies to perform complex calculations without having their own machines.
Mechanism of action
- Quantum computers manipulate qubits that can be in a superposition state, which enables them to process multiple pieces of information simultaneously. With quantum entanglement, qubits can work together to solve complex problems more efficiently. Unlike classical computers, which perform calculations linearly, quantum computers can process multiple possibilities at the same time, significantly speeding up calculations for specific tasks.
Advantages
- Accelerating calculations: Quantum computers can solve problems that would be too time-consuming for classical computers thanks to their ability to process multiple states simultaneously.
- New discoveries in science: Through molecular and chemical simulations, quantum computers can contribute to the development of new drugs, materials, and technologies.
- Process optimisation: Quantum computers can support the optimisation of complex processes, such as logistics, manufacturing, and resource management.
- Increasing computing power: Quantum computers have the potential to significantly increase the computing power available to companies and research institutions.
- Information security: The development of quantum-secure cryptography methods can enhance information security in the era of quantum computers.
Disadvantages
- Threats to cryptography: Quantum computers could threaten current cryptographic systems, requiring new encryption methods that are resistant to quantum attacks.
- High costs: Current quantum computer technology is very expensive, which limits its availability.
- Decoherence problems: Quantum computers are prone to decoherence, which leads to the loss of the properties of quantum qubits and limits their usefulness in long-term computing.
- Limited availability: Due to high costs and complex technology, access to quantum computers is currently limited to large companies and research institutions.
- Technology risk: Quantum computer technology is still in the early stages of development, with technological risks and unpredictability of future applications.
Implementation of the technology
Required resources
- IT infrastructure: Highly advanced computing and cooling resources for quantum computers, which require specialised labs.
- A team of scientists and engineers: Experts in quantum physics, engineering, and computer science who develop and optimise quantum computer technologies.
- Research environment: Adequate facilities for testing and developing technologies, including quantum laboratories and advanced simulation software.
- Access to the quantum cloud: Cloud services offering access to quantum computers can be an important resource for companies and research institutions.
- Simulation tools: Advanced quantum simulators to test quantum algorithms before running them on real quantum computers.
Required competences
- Knowledge of quantum mechanics: Experts must have an in-depth knowledge of quantum mechanics to understand and use principles such as superposition, entanglement, and quantum interference.
- Quantum algorithms: Ability to create and optimise quantum algorithms, such as Shor’s algorithm, Grover’s algorithm, and others, that take advantage of the specific properties of quantum computers.
- Quantum programming: Knowledge of quantum programming languages, such as Qiskit, Cirq, or Forest, to develop applications and simulations on quantum computers.
- Computer engineering: Ability to design and test computer hardware capable of handling quantum computing, including managing low temperatures and minimising decoherence.
- Managing multiscale computing: Knowledge of methods and tools for integrating quantum computing with classical computing systems, which enables the effective use of the power of quantum computers in conjunction with existing infrastructures.
Environmental aspects
- Energy consumption: Quantum computers, especially those operating in cryogenic conditions, require a large amount of energy to cool and maintain proper operating conditions. Investing in more efficient cooling systems and using renewable energy can help minimise environmental impact.
- Electronic waste: The production and upgrading of equipment needed for quantum computers generate waste electronic devices that need to be properly recycled to reduce environmental impact.
- Reducing resource consumption: Quantum computers can help reduce the consumption of natural resources through more efficient simulations, which can reduce the need for physical testing and research in some industries, such as chemistry or materials science.
- Energy optimisation: Quantum algorithms can help optimise energy consumption in various sectors, such as energy, logistics, and manufacturing, which can lead to reduced greenhouse gas emissions.
Legal conditions
- Data protection: Quantum computers could threaten current cryptographic systems and thus regulations, such as GDPR, have to be adapted (example: data protection under GDPR).
- New cryptographic standards: New cryptographic algorithms resistant to quantum attacks are needed (example: post-quantum cryptographic algorithms).
- Licences and patents: Quantum technologies must be protected by relevant intellectual property laws (example: quantum technology patents).
- Export control: Quantum technologies may be subject to export regulations due to their strategic applications (example: export regulations in the US).
- Information security: Standards, such as ISO/IEC 27001, must address the risks associated with quantum computers (example: compliance with ISO/IEC 27001).