DECODING QUANTUM

Classical Computing vs. Quantum Computing

Quantum AI Institute
Decoding Quantum™
2 min readJun 3, 2024

--

Imagine a world where solving a mind-boggling problem that would take regular computers years, can be cracked in minutes. This is not science fiction. This is the potential of quantum computing.

Before we dive into the realm of quantum computing, let’s revisit the computers we know and love, that is: classical computers. Think of a classical computer like a light switch that is either turned on (1) or turned off (0).

These binary bits 1 or 0 are the building blocks of information in our everyday classical computers. They process information sequentially, one step at a time, like a diligent student checking off answers on a multiple-choice test.

Now, let’s dive into quantum computers. Unlike their classical counterpart, quantum computers utilize the extraordinary properties of quantum mechanics.

In quantum computers, qubits, the quantum equivalent of bits, can be a 1, a 0, or both simultaneously which is a phenomenon known as superposition. Imagine a coin spinning in the air — and it’s both heads and tails until it lands. Similarly, a qubit holds the potential of all possibilities at the same time.

This unique superposition ability allows quantum computers to explore a multitude of solutions simultaneously, rendering…

--

--