From Quantum Mechanics to Quantum Computing

Abstract

Quantum computing is an upcoming technology which has the potential to revolutionize our lives with its unprecedented computating powers. A quantum computer works on the principles of Quantum Mechanics, a branch of Physics. Quantum mechanics is the universal theory of nature which governs the microworld and underlies all the physical phenomena. In this chapter, we outline how the basic quantum concepts like probability amplitudes, linear superposition principle, entanglement, etc can be harnessed to perform computations. We discuss the basic concepts of quantum mechanics, starting with Hilbert space methods and describe how quantum bits or qubits can be used.