Quantum leap – New mission can lead to benefits across sectors

Source: The post is based on the article “Quantum leap – New mission can lead to benefits across sectors” published in the Business Standard on 24th April 2023.

Syllabus: GS – 3: Science and Technology – Indigenization of technology and developing new technology.

Relevance: About National Quantum Mission.

News: The government’s recent announcement for National Quantum Mission (NQM) for 2023-24 through 2030-31 is a fillip to R&D in quantum tech.

About National Quantum Mission

What is quantum computing, and what are its applications?

Its various applications include,

-In theory, a quantum computer could deliver accurate meteorological projections, perform seismic data analysis, analyse protein folding, etc.

-Quantum computers could potentially break most current encryption, by quickly solving the mathematical problems on which modern cryptography is based.

-Quantum technology can lead to benefits across fields as diverse as communications, health, financial sector, energy management, drug design, as well as aerospace and military applications.

What is the significance of quantum entanglement?

What are the various characteristics of Quantum computers?

-Quantum computing uses quantum bits, or qubits. A conventional bit is based on an electrical current being switched on or off, which enables binary calculations. A qubit can be both on and off at the same time. This allows a quantum computer to perform far more calculations with far fewer qubits.

-Special materials and rare helium isotopes are used to manage cooling and shielding, quite apart from specialised semiconductors allowing for quantum logic gates.

-Quantum applications in the related fields of communications and cryptography depend on another quantum property — “Quantum entanglement”.

-Cryptographically secure communications can be generated by separating two entangled particles. Moreover, by sharing entangled particles as keys, communications become unbreakable.

What are the concerns associated with quantum computing?

a) Quantum computers are prone to far higher levels of error, b) Superpositions (where a qubit is both on and off) can collapse quickly, c) The software programming is different, and requires excellent error control and management, d) Researchers have found it hard to maintain physically stable configurations, e) Quantum computers require huge installations which must be housed in super-cold, seismically stable places since even passing trucks can cause errors through imperceptible tremors and f) Developing quantum technologies need extensive research into the design and synthesis of superconductors, novel semiconductor structures, and materials with complex topological structures as well as new software.