Question
Q35) Which one of the following is the context in which the term “qubit” is mentioned?
- Cloud Services
- Quantum Computing
- Visible Light Communication Technologies
- Wireless Communication Technologies
Answer: 2
Detailed Explanation
Quantum Bit (Qubit):
A quantum bit (qubit) is the smallest unit of quantum information, which is the quantum analog of the regular computer bit, used in the field of quantum computing. Hence option 2 is correct
They operate according to two key principles of quantum physics: superposition and entanglement.
Superposition means that each qubit can represent both a ‘1’ and a ‘0’ at the same time. Entanglement means that qubits in a superposition state can be correlated with each other. Using these two principles, qubits can act as more sophisticated switches, enabling quantum computers to function in ways that allow them to solve difficult problems that are unmanageable using today’s computers.
Quantum Computing:
Quantum computing is an area of computing based on the principles of quantum theory, which explains the behaviour of energy and material on the atomic and subatomic levels.
It uses quantum bits or qubits.
It harnesses the unique ability of subatomic particles that allows them to exist in more than one state i.e. a 1 and a 0 at the same time.
Superposition and entanglement are two features of quantum physics on which these supercomputers are based.
This empowers quantum computers to handle operations at speeds exponentially higher than conventional computers and much lesser energy consumption. Quantum computation uses quantum bits (qubits).
India and Quantum Computing
In the Union Budget of 2020-2021, the Central Government has allocated Rs. 8000 crore for the National Mission on Quantum Technology and Applications (NMQTA).
The mission seeks to develop quantum computing linked technologies amidst the second quantum revolution and make India the world’s third-biggest nation in the sector after the US and China.
The areas of focus of the NM-QTA Mission will be fundamental science, translation, technology developed and towards fulfilling natural properties
The mission can help prepare next-generation skilled manpower, boost translational research, and also encourage entrepreneurship and start-up ecosystem development.
Quantum principles will be used for engineering solutions to extremely complex problems in computing, communications, sensing, chemistry, cryptography, imaging, and mechanics Their applications will be boosted include those in aerospace engineering, numerical weather predictions, simulations, securing the communications & financial transactions, cybersecurity, advanced manufacturing, health, agriculture, education
It can bring India to the list of a few countries with an edge in this emerging field and will have a greater advantage in garnering multifold economic growth and a dominant leadership role.
Cloud Services
The term cloud services refer to a wide range of services delivered on-demand to companies and customers over the internet.
Visible Light Communication Technologies
Visible light communication (VLC) is a wireless method that enables high-speed transmission of data with visible light.
Visible light communication is a data communications variant that uses visible light between 400 and 800 THz.
Wireless Communication Technologies
Wireless communication is a broad term that incorporates all procedures and forms of connecting and communicating between two or more devices using a wireless signal through wireless communication technologies and devices.
Quantum Key Distribution
QKD, also called Quantum Cryptography, is a mechanism to develop secure communication. It provides a way of distributing and sharing secret keys that are necessary for cryptographic protocols.
Cryptography is the study of secure communications techniques that allow only the sender and intended recipient of a message to view its contents.
Cryptographic algorithms and protocols are necessary to keep a system secure, particularly when communicating through an untrusted network such as the Internet.
The conventional cryptosystems used for data encryption rely on the complexity of mathematical algorithms, whereas the security offered by quantum communication is based on the laws of Physics.
