The very basis of modern-day quantum computing that relies on infinite number of superposed quantum states, on probability, on observable measurement that brings things into reality, is bought into question in the Light-centered Interpretation of quanta as discussed in this article. From the point of view of the Light-centered interpretation superposition, entanglement, and reality take on a different meaning and the infinite processing power allegedly true of quantum states, likely does not exist in the manner in which it has been conceived. Yet quantum computation as currently conceived is expected to be a bedrock technology for the future. This article will examine the basis for this, and will begin to contrast the claim of contemporary quantum computer technologists with the light-based quantum computation paradigm as introduced in this paper.
The very basis of modern-day quantum computing that relies on infinite number of superposed quantum states, on probability, on observable measurement that brings things into reality, is bought into question in the Light-centered Interpretation of quanta as discussed in this article. From the point of view of the Light-centered interpretation superposition, entanglement, and reality take on a different meaning and the infinite processing power allegedly true of quantum states, likely does not exist in the manner in which it has been conceived. Yet quantum computation as currently conceived is expected to be a bedrock technology for the future. This article will examine the basis for this, and will begin to contrast the claim of contemporary quantum computer technologists with the light-based quantum computation paradigm as introduced in this paper.
This article provides a comprehensive technical examination of quantum computing systems based on qubit technology, exploring their revolutionary potential to transform computational capabilities beyond classical limitations. Beginning with an analysis of the fundamental quantum mechanical principles—superposition, entanglement, and quantum interference—the article elucidates how these phenomena enable exponential computational advantages for specific problem domains. Various physical implementations of qubits are evaluated, including superconducting circuits, trapped ions, photonic systems, and theoretical topological approaches, with each platform presenting unique advantages and engineering challenges. It extends to practical applications across cryptography, optimization, and artificial intelligence, where quantum computing promises transformative capabilities. However, significant obstacles remain, including decoherence, high error rates, scalability limitations, and the ongoing development of practical quantum algorithms. Despite these challenges, the quantum computing landscape is evolving toward a hybrid paradigm where quantum and classical resources work in concert, with specialized quantum processors likely to deliver commercial value in specific domains before universal quantum computers become a reality.
In this chapter we shall deal with the most recent and challenging development of quantum theory, and also one of the most important ones for interpretational, foundational, and even technological issues. This field finds its roots in the observation that quantum states can be viewed as bricks of information in a way that is intrinsically different from classical information. As a consequence, the ability to manipulate quantum states translates immediately into a new form of information processing and exchange. What has been discovered during this conceptual passage is that this type of information processing is in many respects much richer than its classical analogue. This has contributed to the understanding of quantum states as an extension of the classical concept of state and not as a defective reality (see also Subsec. 2.3.4 and Sec. 15.5). The impossibility of knowing the value of all observables at the same time that had been seen as a strong limitation in the early days of quantum mechanics, now turns out to be a manifestation of a different – but not necessarily poorer – resource. On the contrary, we have increasingly discovered that superposition and entanglement are additional informational resources. These resources, for instance, allow for certain particular computations that are much faster on a quantum device than on its classical counterpart, and therefore the former is able to solve problems that cannot be practically solved using classical means.
Quantum computing represents a paradigm shift in computational technology, promising to revolutionize the way we approach complex problems across various domains. Unlike classical computing, which relies on bits as the smallest unit of information, quantum computing leverages quantum bits or qubits, which can exist in multiple states simultaneously due to the principles of superposition and entanglement. This article delves into the potential of quantum computing to address real-world complex problems, exploring its theoretical foundations, current advancements, and future prospects. We examine key areas where quantum computing could have a transformative impact, including cryptography, optimization, drug discovery, artificial intelligence, and climate modeling. Additionally, we present three detailed tables summarizing the comparative advantages of quantum computing over classical methods, the current state of quantum hardware, and the potential applications of quantum algorithms. The article concludes with a discussion on the challenges and ethical considerations associated with the widespread adoption of quantum computing.
The four quantum phenomena of superposition, entanglement, tunneling, and annealing are envisioned to give quantum computing the ability to solve complex problems in very low-resolution times as compared with classical computers. These four phenomena are closely related to the light-based properties of presence, knowledge, power, and harmony, central to a multilayered light-based model of reality that also offers alternative foundation for thinking about quanta and quantum computation. In this model, it is not a random process from infinite superposed possibilities that exist at the quantum-level as supposed by the Copenhagen Interpretation, and as assumed as the foundation of the infinite processing capability of quantum objects by contemporary pioneers of quantum computing. Rather, the infinite processing capability is due to a more ordered display of superposition, entanglement, tunneling and annealing: superposition, as an ordered concord of light's property of presence stacked in logical arrangement by layer of light; entanglement, as a display of light's property of knowledge that occurs at a speed faster than the known speed of light; tunneling, as a display of light's property of power that allows toggling between different “realities” in layers of light; and annealing, expressing light's property of harmony, to find an ideal minimum state among a number of realities. These four quantum phenomena derivative from an implicit and natural unity within light, engineered to maintain that unity externally, will confer quantum computation with the possibility of extraordinary processing power.
Abstract: Quantum computing, an interdisciplinary field blending quantum mechanics and computer science, holds promise to revolutionize computational capabilities. Unlike classical computers, which utilize bits to process information in a binary fashion, quantum computers deploy qubits, capable of existing in multiple states simultaneously due to superposition. This unique property, paired with entanglement, offers unparalleled processing power, positioning quantum computing to tackle problems deemed unsolvable by classical means. While heralded for potential applications in cryptography, drug discovery, and complex modeling, quantum computing faces challenges including decoherence, scalability, and error correction. This paper delves into the foundational principles of quantum computing, its current advancements, the vast applications it could revolutionize, and the significant challenges and societal implications it brings. Through comprehensive exploration, we aim to shed light on both the transformative potential of quantum computing and the hurdles that lay in its path.
I am very grateful to the Master and Fellows of Trinity College for inviting me to give the Tarner Lectures. What I want to do in this book, stated boldly and baldly, is to consider the relevance of developments in modern theoretical physics to metaphysical questions about the ultimate nature of reality. By metaphysical questions I mean the very general sorts of questions that arise out of a critical examination of the principles, concepts and fundamental presuppositions that lie behind modern physics. How should we interpret the claims that physicists seem to be making about the world? Are they intended to be understood as literally true, for example, and exactly what are those claims, given that the pages of theoretical physics monographs are largely filled with abstract mathematical formalism? In the first chapter, I shall be looking at a range of philosophical points of view in the framework of which such questions can be addressed, and attempt the difficult task of adjudicating between the different approaches. At the end of the day I shall be arguing for a pretty straightforward metaphysical realism, that the external world exists independently of our knowledge of it. In the second chapter I shall look at arguments from various branches of modern physics that are sometimes claimed to bring in an essential role for subjectivity in physics, bringing the observer into a central role, creating his own reality.