Report on Quantum Computing
1. Introduction
Quantum Computing (QC) is an advanced area of computation that leverages the principles
of quantum mechanics—superposition, entanglement, and interference—to perform
calculations at speeds and scales unattainable by classical computers. Unlike conventional
computing, which processes information in bits (0 or 1), quantum computing uses qubits
that can exist in multiple states simultaneously, enabling exponential computational power.
2. Core Principles of Quantum Computing
1. Qubits – Fundamental unit of quantum information, capable of being 0, 1, or both at
once (superposition).
2. Superposition – A qubit can exist in multiple states simultaneously, allowing parallel
computation.
3. Entanglement – Two or more qubits can be linked, such that the state of one
instantly affects the state of another, even across distances.
4. Quantum Interference – Probability amplitudes can be manipulated to amplify
correct solutions and reduce incorrect ones.
5. Quantum Gates & Circuits – The building blocks of quantum computation, similar to
logic gates in classical computing but operating on qubits.
3. Types of Quantum Computing Approaches
1. Quantum Annealing – Specialized for optimization problems (e.g., D-Wave).
2. Gate-based Quantum Computing – Universal approach, programmable with
quantum circuits (e.g., IBM Quantum, Google Sycamore).
3. Topological Quantum Computing – Uses quasiparticles and braiding for stability and
error resistance (still theoretical but promising).
4. Applications of Quantum Computing
1. Cryptography
o Breaking classical encryption (RSA, ECC).
o Developing quantum-safe cryptography.
2. Optimization Problems
o Supply chain optimization.
o Financial portfolio optimization.
3. Drug Discovery & Healthcare
o Simulating molecules at the quantum level for drug design.
o Protein folding and personalized medicine.
4. Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning
o Faster training of complex ML/DL models using quantum-enhanced
algorithms.
5. Materials Science & Energy
o Designing superconductors, batteries, and solar cells.
o Enhancing energy efficiency.
6. Climate & Weather Modeling
o Processing massive data sets for accurate climate predictions.
5. Advantages
Exponential speed-up for specific classes of problems.
Unparalleled accuracy in simulating quantum systems.
Potential to revolutionize AI, cryptography, and materials science.
6. Challenges
1. Hardware Limitations – Qubits are fragile and prone to decoherence.
2. Error Correction – High error rates require advanced quantum error-correcting
codes.
3. Scalability – Moving from tens to millions of qubits is a huge engineering challenge.
4. Cryogenic Requirements – Most quantum systems need near-absolute zero
temperatures.
5. Algorithm Development – Limited quantum algorithms compared to classical ones.
6. Security Risks – Potential to break widely used encryption methods, requiring urgent
adoption of post-quantum cryptography.
7. Global Players and Progress
IBM Quantum – Developing cloud-accessible quantum systems (IBM Q Experience).
Google Sycamore – Achieved "quantum supremacy" in 2019.
D-Wave – Specialized in quantum annealing.
Microsoft Azure Quantum – Cloud-based quantum ecosystem.
China – Major investments in quantum communication and computing.
Startups – Rigetti, IonQ, Xanadu, PsiQuantum leading innovation.
8. Future Outlook
By the 2030s, quantum computers may move from experimental to commercial
deployment.
Hybrid computing models (classical + quantum) will dominate in the near term.
Quantum Internet and quantum communication networks will transform
cybersecurity.
Industries such as pharma, finance, energy, and logistics will see the earliest
benefits.
Governments are heavily funding quantum research due to its geopolitical and
economic implications.
9. Conclusion
Quantum computing represents a paradigm shift in computation. While it is still in its
nascent stage, its potential to redefine industries, accelerate scientific discovery, and
challenge existing cryptographic systems is immense. Overcoming technical barriers like
error correction, qubit stability, and scalability will be crucial for mainstream adoption.
