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Cambridge University Press eBooks

Quantum Computing since Democritus

Scott Aaronson

Published Mar 14, 2013• 358 citations
Publisher

Abstract

Written by noted quantum computing theorist Scott Aaronson, this book takes readers on a tour through some of the deepest ideas of maths, computer science and physics. Full of insights, arguments and philosophical perspectives, the book covers an amazing array of topics. Beginning in antiquity with Democritus, it progresses through logic and set theory, computability and complexity theory, quantum computing, cryptography, the information content of quantum states and the interpretation of quantum mechanics. There are also extended discussions about time travel, Newcomb's Paradox, the anthropic principle and the views of Roger Penrose. Aaronson's informal style makes this fascinating book accessible to readers with scientific backgrounds, as well as students and researchers working in physics, computer science, mathematics and philosophy.

DOI
10.1017/cbo9780511979309

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Written by noted quantum computing theorist Scott Aaronson, this book takes readers on a tour through some of the deepest ideas of maths, computer science and physics. Full of insights, arguments and philosophical perspectives, the book covers an amazing array of topics. Beginning in antiquity with Democritus, it progresses through logic and set theory, computability and complexity theory, quantum computing, cryptography, the information content of quantum states and the interpretation of quantum mechanics. There are also extended discussions about time travel, Newcomb's Paradox, the anthropic principle and the views of Roger Penrose. Aaronson's informal style makes this fascinating book accessible to readers with scientific backgrounds, as well as students and researchers working in physics, computer science, mathematics and philosophy.
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The multidisciplinary field of quantum computing strives to exploit some of the uncanny aspects of quantum mechanics to expand our computational horizons. Quantum Computing for Computer Scientists takes readers on a tour of this fascinating area of cutting-edge research. Written in an accessible yet rigorous fashion, this book employs ideas and techniques familiar to every student of computer science. The reader is not expected to have any advanced mathematics or physics background. After presenting the necessary prerequisites, the material is organized to look at different aspects of quantum computing from the specific standpoint of computer science. There are chapters on computer architecture, algorithms, programming languages, theoretical computer science, cryptography, information theory, and hardware. The text has step-by-step examples, more than two hundred exercises with solutions, and programming drills that bring the ideas of quantum computing alive for today's computer science students and researchers.
Quantum Computing The twenty-first century has witnessed remarkable advancements in computing technologies, transforming every aspect of modern society. As conventional computing systems approach their physical and computational limits, the search for new paradigms capable of solving increasingly complex problems has led to the emergence of Quantum Computing. By harnessing the principles of quantum mechanics, quantum computing represents a revolutionary approach that has the potential to redefine computation, communication, and information processing on an unprecedented scale. Quantum Computing is designed to provide readers with a comprehensive understanding of the concepts, principles, technologies, and applications that form the foundation of this rapidly evolving field. This book aims to bridge the gap between theoretical quantum mechanics and practical computational applications, enabling students, researchers, academicians, and professionals to explore the transformative potential of quantum technologies. The chapters in this book cover a broad spectrum of topics, including the fundamentals of quantum mechanics, quantum bits (qubits), quantum gates, superposition, entanglement, quantum circuits, quantum algorithms, quantum cryptography, quantum communication, and quantum error correction. The book also explores the architecture of quantum computers and examines the challenges involved in building scalable and fault-tolerant quantum systems. As industries increasingly seek innovative solutions to complex computational problems, quantum computing is emerging as a promising technology with applications in cryptography, artificial intelligence, machine learning, optimization, financial modeling, healthcare, pharmaceutical research, materials science, logistics, and climate modeling. The ability of quantum computers to process vast amounts of information simultaneously offers opportunities that were previously beyond the reach of classical computing systems. Special attention has been given to contemporary developments in quantum technologies, including quantum supremacy, hybrid quantum-classical computing, cloud-based quantum platforms, and the growing role of quantum computing in scientific discovery and industrial innovation. The book also discusses ethical, security, and societal implications associated with the advancement of quantum technologies. The primary objective of this book is to equip readers with both foundational knowledge and practical insights into the field of quantum computing. Through a balanced presentation of theory, applications, case studies, and emerging research trends, the book seeks to inspire curiosity, innovation, and further exploration in this transformative domain. We extend our sincere gratitude to the authors, reviewers, researchers, academicians, and industry experts whose valuable contributions have enriched the quality and relevance of this publication. Their dedication and expertise have helped create a resource that reflects the latest developments and future possibilities of quantum computing. We hope that Quantum Computing will serve as a valuable guide for students, educators, researchers, and technology professionals seeking to understand the next frontier of computational science. May this book inspire new ideas, foster innovation, and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in one of the most exciting technological revolutions of our time. Mr. M. Rajeshkumar Dr. R. Mariappan Mr. E.Janakiraman,
QUANTUM COMPUTING A helpful introduction to all aspects of quantum computing Quantum computing is a field combining quantum mechanics—the physical science of nature at the scale of atoms and subatomic particles—and information science. Where ordinary computing uses bits, logical values whose position can either be 0 or 1, quantum computing is built around qubits, a fundamental unit of quantum information which can exist in a superposition of both states. As quantum computers are able to complete certain kinds of functions more accurately and efficiently than computers built on classical binary logic, quantum computing is an emerging frontier which promises to revolutionize information science and its applications. This book provides a concise, accessible introduction to quantum computing. It begins by introducing the essentials of quantum mechanics that information and computer scientists require, before moving to detailed discussions of quantum computing in theory and practice. As quantum computing becomes an ever-greater part of the global information technology landscape, the knowledge in Quantum Computing will position readers to join a vital and highly marketable field of research and development. The book’s readers will also find: Detailed diagrams and illustrations throughout A broadly applicable quantum algorithm that improves on the best-known classical algorithms for a wide range of problems In-depth discussion of essential topics including key distribution, cluster state quantum computing, superconducting qubits, and more Quantum Computing is perfect for advanced undergraduate and graduate students in computer science, engineering, mathematics, or the physical sciences, as well as for researchers and academics at the intersection of these fields who want a concise reference.
The New Background of Science by Sir James Jeans is an insightful exploration of the profound changes in twentieth-century physics and their philosophical implications. Sir James Jeans delves into the transformative concepts of relativity and quantum theory, highlighting how these have reshaped our understanding of the physical world. He provides a clear and accessible account of complex scientific principles, such as space and time, the nature of matter and radiation, wave mechanics, and the principle of indeterminacy. The book contrasts twentieth-century physics with the deterministic and materialistic views that dominated the nineteenth century, offering a more nuanced perspective that aligns better with everyday human experience. Through a blend of science and rudimentary philosophy, Jeans invites readers to appreciate the broader significance of scientific discoveries, making the content valuable for both students of physics and general readers interested in modern science.
Quantum computing exposes the brilliance of quantum mechanics through computer science and, as such, gives oneself a marvelous and exhilarating journey to go through. This article leads along that journey with a historical and current outlook on quantum computation that is geared toward computer experts but also to experts from other disciplines as well. It is an article that will bridge the vast gap between classical and quantum computation and open an entering wedge through which one will be able to both bring himself up to speed on quantum computation and, intrinsically, in a straightforward manner, become acquainted with it. We are indeed in luck to be living in an age where computing is being reinvented, and not only seeing history in the making firsthand but, in fact, having the opportunity to be the ones who are reinventing--and that is quite a thought.