Physical sources of randomness are indispensable for information technology and cryptography. Yet, the usefulness of random processes seems to be ignored by many natural science researchers, who are exposed to the downsides of randomness, which adds noise and uncertainty to experiments. Here, we look at experimental science through the lens of information theory, with entropy as a key concept that bridges multiple fields. By examining physical unclonable functions and molecular information technology, we highlight interdisciplinary research leveraging these synergies. With this perspective, we hope to inspire the fascination of randomness and entropy in science, encouraging new research directions across different disciplines. Physical sources of randomness are indispensable for information technology and modern cryptography. In this Perspective, the authors explore entropy as a key concept and the interdisciplinary work that utilizes randomness.
Physical sources of randomness are indispensable for information technology and cryptography. Yet, the usefulness of random processes seems to be ignored by many natural science researchers, who are exposed to the downsides of randomness, which adds noise and uncertainty to experiments. Here, we look at experimental science through the lens of information theory, with entropy as a key concept that bridges multiple fields. By examining physical unclonable functions and molecular information technology, we highlight interdisciplinary research leveraging these synergies. With this perspective, we hope to inspire the fascination of randomness and entropy in science, encouraging new research directions across different disciplines. Physical sources of randomness are indispensable for information technology and modern cryptography. In this Perspective, the authors explore entropy as a key concept and the interdisciplinary work that utilizes randomness.
This article aims to provide an introductory survey on quantum random walks. Starting from a physical effect to illustrate the main ideas we will introduce quantum random walks, review some of their properties and outline their striking differences to classical walks. We will touch upon both physical effects and computer science applications, introducing some of the main concepts and language of present day quantum information science in this context. We will mention recent developments in this new area and outline some open questions. 1. Overview Ever since the discovery of quantum mechanics people have been puzzled by the counter-intuitive character of the laws of nature. Over time we have learned to accept more and more effects that are unimaginable in a classical Newtonian world. Modern technology exploits quantum effects both to our benefit and detriment—among the memorable examples we should cite laser technology and not omit the atomic bomb. In recent years interest in quantum information theory has been generated by the prospect of employing its laws to design devices of surprising power [1]. New ideas include quantum cryptography [2, 3] and quantum computation. In 1994 Shor [4] discovered a quantum algorithm to factor numbers efficiently (that is in time that grows only polynomically with the length of the number to be factored). This has unleashed a wave of activity across a broad range of disciplines: physics, computer science, mathematics and engineering. This fruitful axis of research has uncovered many new effects that are strikingly different from their classical counterparts, both from the physical point of view as well as from a computer science and communication theory perspective. Over time these communities have gained a greater understanding of the concepts and notions of the other. The idea that information cannot be separated from
The integration of quantum mechanics with information theory has led to the development of quantum information science, a transformative field that redefines computation, communication, and encryption. This paper explores the foundational principles linking quantum mechanics and information theory, including quantum entanglement, superposition, and the no-cloning theorem, and their role in encoding and transmitting information. The discussion also highlights the rise of quantum computing, quantum cryptography, and quantum error correction as key applications. Emphasis is placed on the theoretical frameworks and practical implications that bridge these disciplines, with insights into current research challenges and future directions.
Randomness is a valuable resource in science, cryptography, engineering, and information technology. Quantum-mechanical sources of randomness are attractive because of the indeterminism of individual quantum processes. Here, we consider the production of random bits from polarization measurements on photons. We first present a pedagogical discussion of how the quantum randomness inherent in such measurements is connected to quantum coherence, and how it can be quantified in terms of the quantum state and an associated entropy value known as min-entropy. We then explore these concepts by performing a series of single-photon experiments that are suitable for the undergraduate laboratory. We prepare photons in different nonentangled and entangled states, and measure these states tomographically. We use the information about the quantum state to determine, in terms of the min-entropy, the minimum amount of randomness produced from a given photon state by different bit-generating measurements. This is helpful in assessing the presence of quantum randomness and in ensuring the quality and security of the random-bit source.
Abstract: Quantum computing and quantum information science constitute a rapidly evolving discipline at the intersection of physics, computer science, and information theory. This paper presents a systematic analysis of the conceptual foundations, theoretical frameworks, and technological challenges shaping the field. The discussion begins with the quantum-mechanical principles underpinning computation and information, followed by a rigorous framework analysis of key models such as qubits, entanglement, and quantum channels. The central problem addressed is the fragility of quantum states under noise and the corresponding need for reliable methods of computation, communication, and security. Methodologically, the paper integrates formal analysis of entropy and channel capacities with the study of error-correcting codes, fault-tolerant architectures, and emerging hardware platforms. The results synthesize advances in quantum algorithms, quantum error correction, quantum cryptography, and hybrid quantum–classical systems, highlighting both their theoretical limits and engineering realizations. The impact is evaluated through implications for secure communication, computational complexity, and future architectures, alongside ethical and societal reflections. By bridging foundational theory with practical challenges, the book offers a comprehensive resource that informs both academic inquiry and technological development. Its neutral, integrative perspective emphasizes not only the purpose of advancing reliable quantum technologies but also their broader implications for science, security, and society. Keywords Quantum computing, quantum information theory, quantum algorithms, quantum error correction, fault-tolerant quantum computation, quantum cryptography, quantum key distribution, post-quantum cryptography, entanglement, quantum channels, von Neumann entropy, quantum capacity, hybrid quantum–classical systems, quantum machine learning, quantum networks, emerging quantum architectures
Recent tremendous development of quantum information theory has led to a number of quantum technological projects, e.g. quantum random generators. This development had stimulated a new wave of interest in quantum foundations. One of the most intriguing problems of quantum foundations is the elaboration of a consistent and commonly accepted interpretation of a quantum state. Closely related problem is the clarification of the notion of quantum randomness and its interrelation with classical randomness. In this short review, we shall discuss basics of classical theory of randomness (which by itself is very complex and characterized by diversity of approaches) and compare it with irreducible quantum randomness. We also discuss briefly “digital philosophy”, its role in physics (classical and quantum) and its coupling to the information interpretation of quantum mechanics (QM).
Abstract The evolution of twenty-first-century science has increasingly relied on interdisciplinary exploration, where boundaries between traditional disciplines blur to foster new innovations. Quantum computing has emerged as a leading area of modern innovation, uniting concepts from physics, mathematics, engineering, and computer science. Using quantum-mechanical properties like entanglement and superposition, these systems are capable of addressing complex problems that traditional computers cannot efficiently handle. This chapter examines the interdisciplinary nature of quantum computing, focusing on how it integrates theoretical physics with computational models to push the frontiers of human knowledge. Through this synthesis, quantum computing not only expands the limits of computation but also demonstrates how collaboration across disciplines can yield transformative technologies that redefine our understanding of science and information. Keywords: Quantum Computing, Interdisciplinary Research, Computer Science, Quantum Algorithms, Innovation, Physics, Future Technology