Qubit Curious: Part 1
The word “quantum” is the newest buzzword in science and tech, and for good reason. According to giants in the quantum technology space, from the European Union’s Quantum Flagship to the Senior Vice President and Director of Research for IBM Darío Gil, “The future is quantum.” But what does “quantum” even mean? And if the future is truly quantum, how will our everyday lives change because of it?
A crash course on quantum mechanics
The word “quantum” refers to quantum mechanics, a fundamental branch of physics that describes the properties of small pieces of matter called particles, which include atoms, photons, and more. These particles exist in a “quantized” state, in which they are bound or limited to discrete and specific energy states. At the same time, particles can also act as waves, because they are constantly shifting and changing location and momentum. This theory of wave-particle duality, where particles can demonstrate wave-like properties and vice versa, is the basis of the complexity that quantum technologies can harness to solve complex problems.
Why can’t traditional technologies solve the types of complex problems that quantum tech can solve?
Let’s look at computers as an example. Typically, classical computers use binary “bits” that act as on and off switches to run programs and solve problems. Binary code is transformative in its own right, and is still well-suited for the everyday tech that we use, from your workplace’s spreadsheet to sending an email to a friend. Quantum computers break this binary, using “qubits” that can exist in different degrees of on and off at the same time. This alternative kind of processing opens doors to train AI more efficiently, enhance encryption strategies, and more.
These quantum systems aren’t limited to computer hardware; they’re in our bodies, too. Recent research from Trinity College Dublin shows that our brains use forms of quantum computing to process information, sparking interest in quantum neuroscience. Because of this, quantum technologies can more effectively capture and manipulate the complexity of biological systems like the nervous system and the brain, allowing many neurotech leaders to experiment within this diverse space.
What are some applications that connect quantum tech with neurotech?
One of the hotbeds for quantum neurotech exists in brain-computer interfaces (BCI), which connect the brain with a computer in direct communication. Though BCI companies like Elon Musk’s Neuralink use classical computing, others are beginning to explore integrating this tech with AI and quantum computing to create Quantum Brain Networks, or QBraiNs.
Another growing field exists in quantum sensors, which utilize ultra-sensitive sensing technology that gathers data at the atomic or quantum level. These can potentially advance earthquake detection, stealth aircraft development, and more, improving accuracy and deepening the level of detail that is captured across the board. In the neurotech space, functional brain imaging using quantum sensors is on the rise, because it improves image quality and enables more compact and mobile brain scanning. This is especially useful for young children or individuals with mobility issues, who may have a difficult time in classical brain imaging machinery where the individual is expected to stay in a certain position for a prolonged amount of time. As the quantum tech space grows, general wellness and mental health monitoring using quantum sensors could be a possibility too.
The applications of quantum tech are only growing rapidly as more research and resources are directed towards quantum companies. In fact, the last 2 years have seen record annual levels of investments in quantum technology, with a staggering $2.35 billion total invested in 2022. With this huge investment in quantum tech, it is safe to say that the future is quantum, and we’re just beginning to see its potential.
Because of the breadth of potential applications in the quantum space, we’re going straight to the source for the inside scoop on the cutting-edge of quantum tech. In this ongoing series, called “Qubit Curious,” we’ll be interviewing various quantum tech experts from the business side to the engineering side, and discover more about our quantum futures together. Up first, we have an exclusive interview with Orang Alem, cofounder and CEO of the quantum sensor and brain imaging company FieldLine Inc.
Are you “Qubit Curious?” Make sure to return for our first interview with quantum sensor company CEO, Orang Alem! And who else do you want to hear from in the quantum space? Share your answers here.
Thanks for reading!
