Quantum computing is a way of performing calculations by using principles of physics to solve highly complex problems very quickly. Until recently, scientists mostly just talked about it in theory, and they didn’t fully understand its implications. Now, they are trying to find real uses for it, with institutions like Google offering a $5 million prize for practical applications.

Straight Arrow News contributor Peter Zeihan explains that even though we don’t fully understand it, quantum computing could revolutionize how we process data, impacting many different areas.

Excerpted from Peter’s March 7 “Zeihan on Geopolitics” newsletter:

We’ve all been hearing sci-fi tales of quantum computing for decades now, but what will its impact actually look like and how soon can we expect it?

When we think of traditional semiconductor tech, there are physical size constraints which will eventually cause a plateau in processing capacity. Quantum computing operates at the atomic level, and a single qubit can theoretically hold more data than the largest supercomputer.

“Theoretically” is the key word in that sentence. While there are advanced quantum computers, practical applications are still limited by our understanding and command of quantum mechanics, intricate assembly, and the hefty maintenance required.

Scaling up quantum computing will take time, but the impact of this technology could revolutionize data processing and materials science.