DOE Explains Quantum Computing's Potential
The Department of Energy explains how quantum computers, using qubits, could solve complex problems beyond the reach of current supercomputers, with
Quantum computers use quantum bits, or qubits, to encode and manipulate information. The laws of quantum mechanics allow these machines to potentially solve difficult problems much faster than today's most powerful supercomputers.
Scientists have already shown quantum speedups in tasks like searching databases. The technology is now in a phase of rapid development, moving beyond small, noisy prototypes. Quantum computers might soon become essential tools, especially as research progresses past the capabilities of Exascale computing systems.
Inherently Quantum Applications
Researchers believe quantum computers will excel at calculating properties of physical systems that are fundamentally quantum. This includes large molecules used in chemical catalysis, which operate under quantum rules. It also extends to the subatomic particles like quarks and gluons found within atomic nuclei.
Beyond physics and chemistry, these computers may be particularly adept at solving complex optimization problems. These problems require selecting the best option from a vast number of possibilities.
DOE Research and Development
The Department of Energy's Office of Science began supporting quantum computing research through its Advanced Scientific Computing Research program in 2017. That support has since expanded across the office's portfolio.
Current research focuses on applications in nuclear and particle physics, plasma science, chemistry, and materials science. Work is also dedicated to improving the basic hardware components of quantum computers, developing advanced control systems for qubits, and conducting computer science research to make the technology more accessible to users.
Supported Testbeds and Resources
The DOE's Office of Science funds two major testbeds to advance quantum computing hardware. These are the Advanced Quantum Testbed at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory and the Quantum Scientific Computing Open User Testbed at Sandia National Laboratories.
Other key resources include the Department of Energy's Quantum Information Sciences page and the National Academies' 2019 report titled "Quantum Computing: Progress and Prospects." The field's progress is documented in science highlights, such as one describing a "Half-Quantum Step Toward Quantum Advantage" and another on a "New Error Mitigation Approach" that improves performance.
The potential repercussions of quantum computing are significant for both scientific research and industry. As the DOE explains, this work is part of its broader mission to clarify fundamental scientific concepts and support U.S. Leadership in research.
