Consider how much more capable quantum computers are than your desktop computer or smartphone. What would take hundreds of years for a traditional computer to process may take only a matter of seconds for a quantum computer. Quantum computing—while still a burgeoning technology today—could offer a wealth of promising breakthroughs in all kinds of industries, from medicine and ecology to technology and manufacturing.

Read on to learn more about the basic characteristics of quantum computing, including what it is, how it works, and how it can be applied to real-life scenarios.

The Basics of Quantum Computing

The term “quantum computing” may sound daunting. But the basics are pretty easy to grasp. Quantum computing operates under the laws of quantum physics, dealing with the behavior of atoms and subatomic particles like electrons and photons. Because of the unpredictable nature of these particles, quantum physics—and likewise, quantum computing—is based more on probabilities than certainties.

Quantum computers must be kept in highly controlled, cold environments for their hardware to work reliably. Any major disruption, like a spike in temperature, could affect the state of atoms present in quantum computer superconductors. For computations to succeed, these atoms need to remain in a quantum state of coherence. This way, quantum engineers can better predict computational patterns. Remember: Quantum computing is all about solving for uncertainty.

Classical vs. Quantum Computing

Traditional (or “classical”) computers do a lot of work for us with a simple click of a mouse or tap of a thumb. They run via “bits,” which refer to binary digits of zeros or ones that make up the most basic form of computational data. However, classical computers can only process information one stage at a time. Quantum computers, on the other hand, rely on “quantum bits,” or “qubits,” that can store zeros, ones, or a combination of both thanks to a concept called superposition. (“Superposition” refers to the property of being in multiple states simultaneously.)

A common analogy to better understand the quantum mechanics behind superposition and qubits is that of flipping a coin. You won’t know whether it lands on head or tails until it stops spinning. But while it’s spinning, it is theoretically both heads and tails at the same time. A bit can be compared to a stationary coin (a one or a zero) while a qubit can be likened to a spinning coin (a one and a zero). Qubits hold the potential for either value until they’re measured, at which point they are converted to a definite state.

Essentially, quantum computing offers a way to process massive amounts of information and solve seemingly impossible problems by calculating rapidly in a multidimensional space. Classical computers simply aren’t engineered in the same way. Think of it this way: Quantum computing is like checking multiple pathways all at once for a range of possible solutions. Classical computing is like checking those same pathways one at a time until a single solution is reached.

What Makes Quantum Computing Different?

The reason that quantum computing is different from classical computing is rooted in how physics works at the quantum level. One key phenomenon of quantum physics that sets quantum computing apart is entanglement.

Entanglement occurs whenever two or more particles or systems share a quantum state. The behavior of one mirrors the other, and both are highly correlated with each other, even if they are not physically close. Entanglement allows quantum computers to calculate data much faster than classical computers. It is how multiple qubits can be manipulated and modified simultaneously rather than one after the other.

Both entanglement and superposition are required for quantum algorithms to take advantage of unique qubit characteristics and to greatly accelerate problem-solving processes.

Real-World Applications Today

While not widely implemented yet, quantum computing technology still plays an important role in several industries and sectors that are gradually adopting it. Below are three major areas in which quantum computing is being used to advance our understanding of science, business, and the world around us.

Scientific Research

Many of the world’s quantum computers exist in laboratories and facilities dedicated to pharmaceutical, materials, and technological research. Technicians and physicists in these fields use quantum computing to better understand how atoms bond to form new molecules. Such experiments can open doors to discoveries related to helpful, life-saving drugs as well as materials that are more reliable, durable, and ecologically friendly.

Additionally, newly gleaned quantum information in fields like cryptography and communication is paving the way for more secure encryption methods to counter cyber threats like identity theft and malware.

Financial Services

Investors are always looking for better ways to diversify their portfolios and maximize the return on their investments. Quantum computing can improve the function of machine learning in relation to finance. For example, qubits can reduce the amount of time it takes to analyze financial data and assess risk associated with buying, selling, interest rates, and more. Thanks to their proficiency at finding patterns amid uncertainty, quantum computers can optimize portfolio management and asset allocation. Plus, quantum encryption offers a way to fortify the security of financial transactions and online banking.

Climate Change Solutions

Regulating climate change and maintaining a healthy environment count as some of the most complex challenges in the world today. Fortunately, quantum computing may help environmental scientists find ways to combat climate change and other related issues. Since quantum computers use entangled qubits, they can more effectively simulate a large range of potential solutions to climate and environmental change, including:

• Enhanced carbon-capturing technology
• Eco-friendly materials production
• More efficient manufacturing processes
• Decreased energy consumption
• More advanced climate modeling

The Future of Computing

Will the future of computing be quantum? While it has the potential to transform a variety of industries for the better, quantum computing is still in its early stages. Computer scientists continually look for ways to make quantum computing more practical and scalable. Specialists in the field are researching how to increase the number of qubits per computer and ensure better error correction techniques to preserve quantum information.

Though quantum computing may become more mainstream in the coming decades, it won’t fully supplant classical computing. Desktop computers, laptops, and smartphones have their place in society because they solve everyday problems quickly and conveniently. Most likely, quantum and classical computers will exist side by side, with quantum computers being used for highly specialized problem-solving that traditional computers cannot handle.

Quantum Computing: Powering Tomorrow’s Innovations

If the idea of participating in the front lines of technological innovation excites you, there’s no better time than now to jump into the world of quantum computing. An education in software engineering might be just what you need to begin—or continue—your career path.

If you’re just starting out, consider WGU for a bachelor’s in computer science or software engineering. Or, if you’re ready for the next step, enroll in our Master of Science in Software Engineering program [hyperlink to degree page]. These degree programs are designed with input from industry experts and with the future in mind. Plus, with WGU’s competency-based learning model, you can progress through your online coursework as quickly as you master the material, potentially saving time and money. Once you finish, you can feel prepared for emerging quantum computing opportunities just around the corner.

Learn more about how WGU can help make your professional goals a reality.