Nobel Laureate Speaker Series: Dr. David J. Wineland

Quantum Computers and Raising Schrödinger's Cat

Quantum computers differ from the everydaycomputers we know in many ways. Thecomputers we use rely on bits of informationthat are either 0 or 1. Quantum computers usequantum bits, or qubits, to store and processinformation. Qubits can exist in a state ofsuperposition, which means they cansimultaneously be both 0 and 1, similar to adigital version of Schrödinger’s cat before thebox is opened. This ability allows quantumcomputers to perform exponentially faster andsolve problems deemed once impossible byclassic computers. Researchers worldwide areexploring various platforms building a quantumcomputer, including utilizing laser-controlledatoms.

This event is free and open to the public. Follow signs to parking after arriving on campus.