Uploaded December 2016 | Updated September 2026, 3 hours ago
Today computers represent and manipulate data in binary bits: 1s and 0s. Tomorrow, they may be able to directly represent uncertainty by manipulating quantum-mechanical states. In a quantum computer, a qubit can represent any one of many possible states with fluctuating probability. While quantum computing is still in its infancy, if realized quantum computers may be able to solve certain problems much more quickly than today’s computers. For example, algorithms exists allowing quantum computers to quickly perform integer factorization, which could challenge the basis for most modern cryptosystems.
Credits: Talking: Geoffrey Challen (Assistant Professor, Computer Science and Engineering, University at Buffalo). Producing: Greg Bunyea (Undergraduate, Computer Science and Engineering, University at Buffalo).
Part of the internet-class.org online internet course. A blue Systems Research Group (https://www.bluegroup.systems) production.
Today computers represent and manipulate data in binary bits: 1s and 0s. Tomorrow, they may be able to directly represent uncertainty by manipulating quantum-mechanical states. In a quantum computer, a qubit can represent any one of many possible states with fluctuating probability. While quantum computing is still in its infancy, if realized quantum computers may be able to solve certain problems much more quickly than today’s computers. For example, algorithms exists allowing quantum computers to quickly perform integer factorization, which could challenge the basis for most modern cryptosystems.
Credits: Talking: Geoffrey Challen (Assistant Professor, Computer Science and Engineering, University at Buffalo). Producing: Greg Bunyea (Undergraduate, Computer Science and Engineering, University at Buffalo).
Part of the internet-class.org online internet course. A blue Systems Research Group (https://www.bluegroup.systems) production.
