Quantum Computing vs Quantum Communications
Quantum computing and quantum communications are two vastly different technologies that are often confused with each other. While the two share some similarities, they are fundamentally different and serve different purposes. In this blog post, we'll provide a factual, unbiased comparison between quantum computing and quantum communications.
Quantum Computing
Quantum computing is a revolutionary technology that relies on the principles of quantum mechanics to process information. Unlike traditional computers that use bits to store and process information, quantum computers use qubits, which can exist in multiple states simultaneously. This ability to exist in multiple states at once allows quantum computers to perform certain calculations at a much faster rate than traditional computers.
One of the primary advantages of quantum computing is its ability to solve complex problems that traditional computers are unable to solve, such as factorizing large numbers and simulating complex chemical reactions. For example, a D-Wave quantum computer was used in 2017 to solve a complex optimization problem 100 million times faster than a traditional computer.
However, quantum computing is still in its early stages and faces several challenges, such as error correction and scalability. Building a stable and commercial quantum computer is still a major challenge, and current quantum computers are still limited in terms of their size and capacity.
Quantum Communications
Quantum communications, on the other hand, is a technology that aims to provide secure communication channels using the principles of quantum mechanics. Quantum communications relies on the fact that any attempt to observe a quantum system will disturb that system, which can be detected by the receiver. This property allows for the creation of perfectly secure communication channels that cannot be eavesdropped on without being detected.
One of the primary advantages of quantum communications is its ability to provide secure communication channels, especially for sensitive information such as financial transactions and government data. Quantum communication technologies are already being deployed, and China sent an encrypted quantum satellite to space in 2016.
However, quantum communications also faces several challenges, such as distance limitations and the requirement for specialized equipment. Currently, quantum communication is typically limited to short distances, and specialized equipment is required to generate and detect qubits for communication.
Comparison
While both quantum computing and quantum communications use the principles of quantum mechanics, they are fundamentally different technologies that serve different purposes. Quantum computing aims to solve complex problems that traditional computers cannot solve, while quantum communications aims to provide secure communication channels.
Quantum computing is still in its early stages, and commercial quantum computers are still a long way off. On the other hand, quantum communications is already being deployed, although it is limited to short distances and requires specialized equipment.
References
- "Quantum Computing." IBM Research, https://www.research.ibm.com/quantum-computing/. Accessed 5 Oct. 2022.
- "Quantum Communications." MIT Technology Review, https://www.technologyreview.com/2020/10/23/1011149/quantum-communications/. Accessed 5 Oct. 2022.