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Kaushal
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Computers & Accessories
at
8:37 PM on November 13, 2008
priyanka's Answer
Quantum computing is the area of study focused on developing computer technology based on the principles of quantum theory , which explains the nature and behavior of energy and matter on the quantum (atomic and subatomic) level. Development of a quantum computer , if practical, would mark a leap forward in computing capability far greater than that from the abacus to a modern day supercomputer , with performance gains in the billion-fold realm and beyond. The quantum computer, following the laws of quantum physics, would gain enormous processing power through the ability to be in multiple states, and to perform tasks using all possible permutations simultaneously. Current centers of research in quantum computing include MIT, IBM, Oxford University, and the Los Alamos National Laboratory.
The essential elements of quantum computing originated with Paul Benioff, working at Argonne National Labs, in 1981. He theorized a classical computer operating with some quantum mechanical principles. But it is generally accepted that David Deutsch of Oxford University provided the critical impetus for quantum computing research. In 1984, he was at a computation theory conference and began to wonder about the possibility of designing a computer that was based exclusively on quantum rules, then published his breakthrough paper a few months later. With this, the race began to exploit his ideas. However, before we delve into what he started, it is beneficial to have a look at the background of the quantum world.
Answered at
9:41 PM on November 13, 2008
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