Using quantum computers in the digital era
By Bill Hubbell, Microsoft Digital Advisory Services
We have been using calculating machines based on zeros and ones since the abacus was invented around 500 BCE. While computers today still rely on the bit, or “binary digit,” for calculating, the mathematics of quantum mechanics govern nature, as described in my first blog, Organizing to create business innovation in the digital era. For that reason, exploring nature requires quantum computers, which are now almost ready for commercialization.
The fundamental difference between today's computers and a quantum computer is the way in which the bit, which is the smallest possible unit of digital data, is realized. While bits only take a 0 or 1 at any time, a quantum bit, or qubit, obeys the laws of quantum mechanics. Qubits can simultaneously be both 0 and 1, known as “superposition.” When they are physically separated but acting as though they are connected with many other qubits, computers can represent a vast number of values simultaneously. The latter is referred to as “entanglement.”
If this seems weird, it’s because it is. Scientists don't know why nature is this way. However, we now know enough about the quantum to harness its amazing properties, both superposition and entanglement, in a computer. Below are three examples of problems that we can solve with quantum computers- chemistry, finance and logistics.
Chemistry - Quantum systems can untangle the complexity of molecular and chemical interactions leading to the discovery of new medicines and materials. For example, today, 3% of the world’s total energy output is spent on making fertilizer because the process, developed in the early 1900s, is extremely energy intensive. However, we know that nitrogenase, a tiny anaerobic bacteria found in plant roots, performs the same process every day using very little energy. While this molecule is beyond the abilities of our largest supercomputers to analyze, it is within the reach of a moderate-scale quantum computer. Creating nitrogenase to make fertilizer will have a significant impact on energy consumption.
Finance - The (stock) portfolio optimization theory we use today necessarily cuts corners and relies upon approximations because of the limitations of today’s computers. But what if you could, in fact, precisely consider the possible combinations of stocks for an optimized portfolio? While the number of possibilities created by the combinations of stocks dwarf the number of atoms in the observable universe, quantum computers can take the expected risk and return over time for each stock and build an optimized portfolio comprised of stocks from anywhere in the world in a finite amount of time.
Logistics - In October 2016, Budweiser transported a truckload of beer 120 miles with an empty driver’s seat. When autonomous trucks start crisscrossing the country, classical computers will have a very hard time keeping up with continuous changes in traffic conditions, weather and the mechanical condition of the truck. A quantum computer, however, uses these variables and continuously solves for the optimum route.
There are many more areas made for quantum computers, including machine learning, AI, and large database searches. We live in a quantum world, and quantum computing power is helping us reach this reality.
About the author:
Bill Hubbell is a Senior Economist within Microsoft Digital. Digital Advisors bring their expertise, as well as Microsoft’s resources, experience and innovation, to empower organizations to reach their digital aspirations. For more information, please visit: Microsoft Digital Advisory Services.