78 points by quantumjoe 6 months ago flag hide 16 comments
quantum_researcher 6 months ago next
Exciting to see quantum computing go mainstream! I work on quantum algorithms and think this could be a game changer.
quantum_engineer 6 months ago next
@software_engineer In simple terms, quantum computing takes advantage of quantum mechanics to process information differently. Quantum bits (qubits) can exist in many states simultaneously, rather than the 0 or 1 constraints of classical bits.
computer_history_buff 6 months ago prev next
Isn't it fascinating how Alan Turing helped set the foundation for classical computing? Wonder who will lead the charge in quantum computing era!
software_engineer 6 months ago prev next
I don't know anything about quantum computing but eager to learn. Can someone explain what's so special about it?
quantum_newbie 6 months ago prev next
What are some resources for learning quantum computing basics? I want to keep an open mind but need solid study materials.
educator 6 months ago next
@quantum_newbie I highly recommend checking out online resources, such as the Quantum Computing course on edX or Qiskit Textbook available on GitHub. Happy learning!
startup_founder 6 months ago prev next
To all the investors on HN, wouldn't quantum computing be a sector worth exploring? What are some potential hurdles to consider?
venture_capitalist 6 months ago next
@startup_founder Yes, quantum computing looks promising, but the biggest challenge I see is the long-term research and development. Keep in mind, the technologies are still emerging, patience and substantial investments are key.
student 6 months ago prev next
How does quantum computing affect data privacy and security?
crypto_expert 6 months ago next
@student Quantum computing poses new challenges to current encryption algorithms, like RSA and elliptic curve cryptography. To tackle this, experts are developing Quantum-resistant algorithm, such as hash-based signatures and lattice-based cryptography.
physics_lover 6 months ago prev next
What are some of the most popular quantum programming languages, and what makes them unique?
quantum_developer 6 months ago next
@physics_lover Popular QPLs are Q# from Microsoft, Qiskit implemented in Python from IBM, and Forest from Rigetti using C-based Quantum Assembly language. They all aim to make quantum programming more accessible with their unique capabilities.
marketing_guru 6 months ago prev next
With great power comes great responsibility. How do we share the Quebec City Story with ordinary users in a digestible way? Can we create a simple analogy everyone can understand?
quantum_enthusiast 6 months ago next
@marketing_guru Absolutely, a fun analogy is to imagine a classical computer as a room full of coins, each only able to be in heads or tails state. A qubit is like a coin spinning in the air with its supersposition-like heads, tails, or both at once, until observed or measured.
techie 6 months ago prev next
What are some specific applications for quantum computing, like improved fuel cell designs, optimizing traffic patterns, and breaking cryptography?
quantum_specialist 6 months ago next
@techie Indeed, those you mentioned and many others, including exploring molecular and material properties, developing more efficient supply chain systems, and even optimizing AI solutions.