Mysterious Quantum Mechanics... Opening the Era of 'Supercomputer in My Hand' [Reading Science]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Bong-su] Quantum Information Science (QIS) is considered one of the leading fields that will disruptively change the landscape of future science and industry. This is because it serves as a key concept to realize various scientific and industrial technologies that have so far existed only as 'theories' or 'concepts.' Quantum mechanics, which began to be academically established by filling the gaps in Newtonian classical mechanics, started to significantly influence the field of information and communication technology since the 1980s. Scientists say that the 'second quantum revolution' has begun. This article explores the concepts, principles, current status, application fields, ripple effects, and prospects of quantum information and communication technologies centered on quantum computing.

◇What is Quantum Computing?

In 1981, a group of physicists and computer engineers gathered at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in Boston, USA. It was an event called the ‘Computing Physics Conference’ hosted by MIT and IBM. This event is later regarded as the ‘birthplace’ of quantum computing technology. Physicists and computer engineers, who had no prior interaction, began discussing core issues of both fields, initiating discussions on quantum computing technology. Notably, Richard Feynman, considered a genius quantum physicist, proposed a physics simulation method using computers at this event, effectively founding the concept of quantum computing.

Quantum mechanics is the study of the movement of the smallest units of matter, namely electrons and nuclei, which make up ‘atoms.’ It mathematically calculates and predicts how ‘quanta’ such as atoms and ions move. Most modern electronic products like TVs, computers, semiconductors, as well as aerospace and chemical products, have been made possible thanks to quantum mechanics. Quantum computing technology is devised based on the principles of quantum superposition and quantum entanglement. All computers invented by humanity so far operate on a digital bit system of 0s and 1s. When inputting information, performing calculations, and outputting results, countless yes/no systems must be processed. Even the most advanced supercomputers face limitations as the amount of input information and variables increases, regardless of CPU or memory speed.

However, quantum computing uses the concept of qubits, where 0 and 1 overlap and results are determined probabilistically. It is possible to place all variables simultaneously and perform calculations, i.e., process data concurrently. This is why it is said that calculations taking a supercomputer one million years can be completed by a quantum computer in two seconds. Quantum entanglement is also a key principle of quantum information technology. In the quantum world, two quanta such as atoms or ions behave as if connected no matter how far apart they are; when one state changes, the other changes as well. This principle is suitable for communication encryption.

The problem is that it is difficult to practically implement these principles. Quanta move according to the principle of superposition only when there is no observation or external interference such as light or gravity. To build a quantum computer in reality, all external variables like light, gravity, air, and temperature must be blocked, which requires enormous costs, isolated spaces, and advanced technology. The algorithm technology capable of properly implementing quantum computing and obtaining results is still in the development stage. This is why recently revealed quantum computers have the size and appearance comparable to the first computer ‘ENIAC’ developed in 1946.

Currently, the global scientific community is actively researching applications of quantum mechanics principles in quantum computers, quantum cryptography communication, and quantum sensors. In September 2019, Google created a 50-qubit quantum computer chip called ‘Sycamore,’ achieving ‘quantum supremacy’ for the first time in the world with computational speed superior to supercomputers. IBM is also operating a 65-qubit quantum computer called ‘Hummingbird.’ This year, IBM plans to develop a 127-qubit quantum computer called ‘Eagle,’ a 433-qubit ‘Osprey’ next year, and a 1121-qubit ‘Condor’ the year after. In July, Harvard University and MIT jointly announced the development of a 256-qubit quantum computer using a new technology called ‘optical tweezers.’ In Korea, while somewhat ahead in commercializing quantum cryptography communication, the country remains a latecomer overall. The Ministry of Science and ICT announced in April that it aims to develop a 50-qubit quantum computer by 2024.

◇Keywords of ‘Future Technology’

Quantum information technology, including quantum computing, is not just about faster ‘computational speed’ or unhackable encryption technology. The tremendous computational speed can be seen as infrastructure that can completely transform future society, including wearable computers, artificial intelligence (AI), autonomous driving of ships, cars, and airplanes, and the metaverse (extended virtual world). When combined with currently commercialized 5G communication technology and the upcoming 6G ultra-high-speed communication technology upgraded through satellite communication, it is expected to bring disruptive innovation beyond the era of 4G that opened the golden age of internet video services like YouTube.

Especially, if quantum computers operable at room temperature and atmospheric pressure, which scientists worldwide are researching, emerge, the speed of change will accelerate further. With the ability to process and transmit information at tremendous speeds, ‘clouding’ services will become essential. All information and communication devices, including personal PCs, laptops, smartphones, and tablets, will be able to eliminate annoying obstacles such as heat generation, energy consumption, weight, and size. Quantum computing and data centers replacing supercomputers will be installed in each region, instantly processing information and delivering it to devices via the ultra-high-speed 6G network. Google’s game streaming platform ‘Stadia,’ which has been in service since November last year, is also seen as a ‘pilot service’ preparing for the quantum computing era. Cloud gaming, which allows high-quality games to be enjoyed on smartphones without expensive console game devices, could become the ‘norm’ in the quantum computing era. In other words, a world where everyone carries a ‘supercomputer’ in their hands is coming.

The ripple effects on scientific and technological fields such as bio and aerospace engineering are also expected to be significant. If quantum computing technology is introduced in the development of virus vaccines and treatments, which countries are struggling with to solve the COVID-19 pandemic, it can greatly help by calculating various variables instantly. Aerospace engineering, aiming for Mars, the Moon, and deep space exploration, will also benefit from greatly enhanced computing power, making complex flight simulations and material development much faster and easier.

Professor Park Je-geun of the Department of Physics and Astronomy at Seoul National University advised at the Quantum Science and Technology Forum held last month, "Currently, Korea seems to be about five years behind major competing countries in terms of investment and specialized personnel," adding, "The next five years will determine the future of quantum science and technology, so it is necessary to nurture the next generation of leaders and make decisive national-scale investments."