Quantum computing breakthrough brings us closer to achieving ‘supremacy’
A group of researchers have made a significant breakthrough in quantum computing, potentially bringing us closer to achieving “supremacy” in the field. The team, who are from the University of New South Wales in Sydney, Australia, have developed a quantum processor that can simulate the behavior of up to 20 qubits.
Quantum computers are designed to solve complex mathematical problems significantly faster than conventional computers. They work on the principles of quantum mechanics, where instead of the standard binary system of “one” or “zero,” quantum computers use “qubits,” which can represent a range of values simultaneously.
Currently, the most advanced quantum computers contain around 50 qubits. However, scientists have been working towards the goal of achieving “quantum supremacy,” where a quantum computer would be able to solve a problem that a conventional computer can’t, or in much less time.
The team from the University of New South Wales has taken a step towards that goal by developing a silicon-based quantum processor, dubbed “Flip-Flop.” The processor contains 20 qubits and can simulate the behavior of more complex systems, making it a significant step towards achieving quantum supremacy.
One of the challenges in quantum computing is the fact that qubits are notoriously difficult to control and maintain. Temperatures close to absolute zero are required to keep the qubits stable, and even the smallest disturbance can lead to errors in calculations.
The researchers at the University of New South Wales have tackled some of these issues by using a silicon-based quantum processor, which is more stable than other materials commonly used in quantum computing.
In addition, they’ve used a technique called “error-corrected quantum annealing,” which allows them to detect and correct any errors that may occur during calculations.
The Flip-Flop processor is not the only breakthrough in quantum computing in recent years. In 2019, Google claimed to have achieved quantum supremacy with a 53-qubit processor, although that claim has been debated by other experts in the field.
Regardless, the development of the Flip-Flop processor is significant as it shows that researchers are making steady progress towards developing quantum computers capable of solving complex problems that are not possible with conventional computers.
The potential applications of quantum computing are vast, including drug discovery, financial modeling, and cryptography. While it’s still early days, the progress being made in the field of quantum computing is incredibly exciting and could have a significant impact on our world in the years to come.
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