Top 6 Possible Applications of Quantum Computers
Quantum Computers are the most powerful computers in existence that can perform extremely complex calculations, which are beyond the ability of traditional supercomputers. The technology of Quantum computing is based on the principles of quantum theory, which explains the nature of energy and matter on the atomic and subatomic level. It relies on some mind-bending quantum-mechanical phenomena, such as superposition and entanglement. Granted, quantum computers are still in their infancy, let us take a look at the possible applications of these highly capable systems.
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Cancer Treatment
It is general speculation that quantum computing applications would generate a new era in medical imaging. Not only will we get outstandingly improved images but the physician will also be able to interoperate results in a much better way. All of this is possible because efficient machine learning can train quantum computers to identify abnormal findings with a precision better than the human eye.
Currently, computers deal with thousands of variables to develop a radiation plan that targets cancer cells without damaging healthy ones. Quantum computers would allow rapid and more precise radiation plans by providing comparisons between all possible approaches. The end result would be an ideal radiation dose pointed at the right target. Consequently, a significant reduction in side effects will be observed.
Traffic Management
Quantum computers can solve highly complex tasks, like traffic optimization, much faster than conventional supercomputers. Whether in the air or on the ground, quantum computers will help to streamline traffic control. They will be able to quickly calculate the optimal routes concurrently which allows for efficient scheduling and would reduce traffic congestion. For similar reasons, quantum computers are also useful for optimizing supply chains, air traffic control, fleet operations, and deliveries.
The Volkswagen Group has made some incredible progress in this domain. For the first time, Volkswagen experts have succeeded in using a quantum computer to develop a traffic management system that will replace forecasting for urban traffic volumes, transport demand, and travel times. This advanced system will give a massive boost to the precision of these calculations.
Complex Molecular Simulations
Another possible application of this revolutionary technology is precision modeling of molecular interactions. Similarly, it can help scientists to find the optimum configurations for chemical reactions. Chemical reactions are quantum in nature as they form highly entangled quantum superposition states. “Quantum Chemistry” is such a complex subject that only the simplest molecules can be analyzed by modern digital computers. However, fully-developed quantum computers would have no difficulty in evaluating even the most complex processes.
Artificial Intelligence
A primary application for quantum computing is Artificial Intelligence (AI). AI is based on the principle of learning from experience (feedback) and becoming more accurate over time until the computer program appears to exhibit “intelligence”. This feedback is based on calculating the probabilities for many possible choices which makes AI an ideal candidate for quantum computation. It promises to disrupt every industry, from automotive to medicine, and it’s been said that AI will be to the 21st century, what electricity was to the 20th.
Gaming
With all that power that quantum computers possess, they would always be an ideal choice for gaming. It seems that a quantum computer would easily beat the beefiest gaming rig of today. Well, the answer is a big ‘maybe’. The way quantum computer algorithms work is quite different as compared to the classical systems. For this reason, the game code will need to be written in a different language, one that can take full advantage of a quantum computer.
Microsoft has been working on a programming language called Q#, which uses both classical and quantum hardware to compute. It is also very similar to C#, which would mean that it is very possible to develop games using Q# that could take advantage of the quantum hardware. If all goes well, we may get to see Call of Duty: Quantum Edition someday.
Weather Forecasts
Even with the sophisticated tools that we have today, weather forecasting remains a bit of a guessing game. Just ask anyone who has been caught in a storm with no warning or the one who prepared for a blizzard but ultimately only saw flurries. Since quantum computers can analyze all the data at once, meteorologists will have a much better idea of when bad weather will strike. Therefore, they will be able to alert people in-time to minimize the losses of life and property. All in all, quantum computers will improve our overall ability to respond to climate change.
You can get some detailed insights about Quantum Computing here.
Computer Scientist by qualification who loves to read, write, eat, and travel