Introduction to quantum computing

Introduction

Quantum computing is a rapidly evolving field at the intersection of physics, mathematics, and computer science. Unlike classical computing, which relies on bits as units of information, quantum computing leverages the principles of quantum mechanics – such as superposition and entanglement – to solve certain computational problems more efficiently.

This course begins with an introduction to the basics of ‘classical’ computing, providing a foundation of logic gates and information processing before moving on to quantum computing. You will explore the fundamental principles of quantum computing and be introduced to the qubit (quantum-bit, pronounced kew-bit), the quantum analogue of the classical bit.

You will examine quantum computing processes, from input to output, including single-qubit gates and two-qubit gates. By the end of this section, you will be able to read a quantum circuit, predicting how a series of gates transforms input qubits into output states. Additionally, you will engage in activities, such as designing your own quantum circuit to achieve a specific computational outcome.

To ensure you have the necessary technical background, the course includes dedicated sections on relevant quantum physics and mathematics topics. Whether these sections serve as a review or introduce new concepts, they provide the foundation for grasping quantum computing. Essential concept to pay close attention to are quantum superposition and quantum entanglement, two of the most fascinating and fundamental phenomena in quantum mechanics.

Finally, the course concludes with an overview of the technologies driving real-world quantum computing, exploring how researchers and companies are working to make quantum computers a reality.

By the end of this course, you will have a grasp of quantum computing fundamentals, its computational advantages, and the technological advancements shaping its future.

This OpenLearn course is an adapted extract from the Open University course SM380 Quantum physics: fundamentals and applications [Tip: hold Ctrl and click a link to open it in a new tab. (Hide tip)] .