Many researchers argue that the next computational jump will be powered by quantum computers, which can perform an impressive number of operations simultaneously, a trait that could be harnessed to unlock new innovations in several domains, including medicine, astronomy, or chemistry.
Several private and public entities are hard at work on de development of quantum computers, with the primary goal being represented by the manufacturing of the first functional quantum computer in the world.
Regular computers tend to store information as bits (the classic 0 and 1 duo), while quantum computers will employ quantum bits (or qubits). A prime advantage is represented by the fact that quantum states can be binary at the same time, a feature that has been named quantum superposition, offering a computational power that can easily outclass even the most powerful supercomputers, which are in use today.
The development of quantum computers thanks to machine learning
Another boon is represented by quantum entanglement, which offers the opportunity to influence the state of one qubit with another qubit without the need to establish a physical link between them. Several teams of researchers are hard at work on the exploration of different qubits, with each having a specific potential and role. Some come with improved scalability, while others can store information for a longer time.
Qubits in silicon appear to be the most promising implementation since they come with the two traits mentioned above. One of the most popular implementations of qubits in silicons is represented by the use of a large architecture that involves the specific placement of phosphorus atoms on a 2D grid.
In this setup, the actions of the qubits and their states are controlled with the help of nano electrical wires. A team of researchers used machine learning to create a new framework that facilitates the placement of the phosphorus atoms on the grid, a fact that can accelerate the development of quantum computers. More data will be shared in the future.
