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Quantum Mechanics Primer: Fundamentals and Quantum Computing

Quantum Mechanics Primer: Fundamentals and Quantum Computing

Alex Khang (Global Research Institute of Technology and Engineering, USA), Kali Charan Rath (Department of Mechanical Engineering, GIET University, India), Nalinikanta Panda (Department of Mechanical Engineering, GIET University, India), and Amaresh Kumar (Department of Production and Industrial Engineering, National Institute of Technology, Jamshedpur, India)
Copyright: © 2024 |Pages: 24
DOI: 10.4018/979-8-3693-1168-4.ch001
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Abstract

The introduction to quantum physics in this chapter is about its foundations and connection to quantum computing. The basis for quantum computing, a field with enormous potential, is the science of quantum mechanics. There are some key quantum physics ideas discussed in this chapter. The basics of quantum computing are examined. The benefits and difficulties of applying quantum physics to real-world applications are explored. The purpose of this chapter is to give readers a thorough knowledge of quantum physics.
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1. Introduction

The branch of physics known as quantum mechanics explains how matter and energy behave. It is a fundamental idea that challenged the conventional principles of physics that control our daily experiences and changed our knowledge of the physical universe. The idea of superposition, in which particles can exist in several states at once, is at the core of quantum physics. This feature makes it possible to investigate parallel possibilities and opens up new pathways for computation beyond what conventional computers are capable of. In quantum computing, the principles of quantum physics are used to process and manipulate data in ways that are superior to conventional computers. It has the potential to change industries by resolving complicated issues (Shyam &Khang et al., 2023).

The exciting topic of quantum computing is examined along with the basics of quantum mechanics in this chapter. A subfield of physics called quantum mechanics looks at the behavior of particles. It shows how small the scales of the world are. On the other hand, quantum computing is a cutting-edge field that makes use of quantum physics to create powerful computers that have the ability to tackle complicated problems more quickly. Understanding the basics of quantum mechanics will allow us to comprehend the underlying ideas behind quantum computing. Let's see how quantum physics serves as the basis for quantum computing.

1.1 Significance of Quantum Mechanics in Modern Science and Technology

Modern science and technology depends on the field of quantum mechanics. It allows us to understand phenomena that classical physics can't describe at the atomic and subatomic scales. This understanding is important for the development of many fields. Quantum computing, which uses quantum bits, or qubits, to carry out simultaneous computations and solve difficult problems more effectively than classical computers, has emerged as a game-changer.

With the help of quantum physics, data can be transmitted with previously unseen security. The creation of atomically precise materials and gadgets has been sparked by its uses in materials science. Modern science and technology depends on quantum mechanics since it drives fundamental research, produces ground-breaking findings, and changes technologies in a wide range of sectors.

1.2 Historical Background

The historical development of quantum mechanics has laid the foundation for numerous advancements in modern science and technology (Cárdenas-Martínez et al., 2018). In this article, we will explore the historical background of quantum mechanics and its significant contributions to the field of science and technology.

  • a)

    Quantum mechanics originated in the late 19th century with Max Planck's work on black-body radiation, introducing the concept of quantized energy.

  • b)

    Albert Einstein's explanation of the photoelectric effect in 1905, considering light as composed of discrete particles (photons), contributed to quantum theory.

  • c)

    Niels Bohr proposed the Bohr model of the atom in 1913, incorporating quantum principles and explaining atomic spectra.

  • d)

    Louis de Broglie's wave-particle duality concept in 1924 suggested that particles exhibit both wave-like and particle-like characteristics.

  • e)

    Werner Heisenberg's uncertainty principle in 1927 highlighted the limitations in simultaneously measuring position and momentum with precision.

  • f)

    Erwin Schrödinger's development of the Schrödinger equation in 1926 provided a mathematical framework for quantum systems and wave functions.

  • g)

    Quantum mechanics has led to significant technological advancements (Cicconetti et al., 2022), including:

    • •

      Transistors and microelectronics, utilizing the quantum behavior of electrons, enabling modern electronics.

    • •

      Lasers, which rely on quantum properties to amplify and emit coherent light, finding applications in various industries.

    • •

      Quantum computing, based on quantum bits (qubits), holds the potential for exponentially faster computation and impact fields such as cryptography and drug discovery.

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