The Quantum Consultant

  1. Introduction In the quantum realm, phenomena are governed by the laws of quantum mechanics, leading to a unique approach to information processing and transmission. Quantum Information Theory (QIT) is an intersection of quantum mechanics and information theory, providing fresh insights and capabilities that extend beyond classical information processing. In this blog, we will unpack the core concepts of QIT in a way that’s accessible to anyone, regardless of their prior knowledge of quantum physics. This blog is entirely based on the Course Information for Physics 219/Computer Science 219 Quantum Computation of California Institute of Technology. 2. Classical Information Theory: A Brief Overview Before delving into the specifics of quantum information theory, we must first understand what information is, fundamentally. Information can be thought of as data that reduces uncertainty about a system. In classical information theory, developed by Claude Shannon, information...

1. Introduction  In one of my earlier blogs , I mentioned that quantum computers are not going to replace digital computers. This assertion is supported by research on quantum computing, which has advanced alongside digital computing. In 1968, Stephen Wiesner introduced the first concept for coding on a quantum computer. In 1973, Alexander Holevo described the qubit and its ability to carry more information than a digital bit. Paul Benioff's 1980 work laid the technical foundation for quantum computers. Following this, significant foundational research was conducted, leading to the creation of the first working quantum computer at Oxford University in 1998. By 2007, the first commercial quantum computer was operational. The drive for quantum computing research has primarily been fueled by cryptography and the quest to understand quantum mechanics. Early on, it became clear that digital computers would never possess sufficient computational power to fully grasp quantum mechanics. De...