An intro to quantum computing, or ADHD, either way.

 So if you're into technology, you've likely heard by now of QUANTUM COMPUTING. Ohh Ahh! It's fast and amazing, and bordering theoretical for most people. But if you're not sure beyond that, the gist is that normal computers work with Binary code, 0's and 1's. Each bit of info is an on or off signal. 

And have to think like this. When they do calculations, they examine on or off, on or off, and follow algorithms to get answers. But this is limited, you can only view one state at a time. Something is either 0 OR 1. and as fast as our computing has become lately, normal computers will always be limited by only reading one state at a time. 

So if you've heard of Schrodinger's Cat, you know that a cat in a box is simultaneously alive and dead until you open the box and view which state it's in. Well, a normal PC that is being told to predict the state would consider how likely each state is one at a time. Are there holes in the box for air? Has the box been kept in a safe location? How long has the cat been in the box? And for each question, there are possible states the computer has to consider and run through. Let's stick to 2 questions for the demonstration

1. Are there holes in the box?

2. Is the box underwater?

So let's make up some statistical probabilities real quick for demonstration:

There are holes, and the box is underwater: Unless it was just put there a few seconds ago, the cat is drowned, let's say 20% alive, 80% dead

There are holes, but the box is above water, so probably alive, but depends on how long it's stuck in there and if it's being given food, let's go 80% alive, 20% dead

There are no holes and the box is underwater, Cat might have some stored air to breathe depending on the time and the seal of the box, but certainly not a great chance. 5% alive, 95% dead

No holes but the box is above water. No concern about water leaking in to drown, but the air is still an issue. Time is the biggest factor here. Let's call this a 60% alive and 40% dead

As you're reading this, you only read one scenario at a time. But a quantum computer can view more than one state at the same time, meaning it can run through these scenarios at the same time. This makes quantum computers really good for research and predictive calculations. But you know what a quantum computer sucks at? Running normal programs. 

Now I can't ACTUALLY think of multiple scenarios at the same time, but I process a scenario very quickly so it often feels like I can consider every possibility at the same time because it all happens in my mind in just a few moments. So I often feel like a quantum pc. Really good at complex thinking, design, prediction, and consideration of multiple factors. Really bad at staying focused on a single task like a normal pc can do. My mind moves fast which is good for lots of things, but awful if I want to stay focused on a non-complex task.

So we're back to the strengths and weaknesses, which is why you'll find a lot of ADHD in fields like math and science and data and technology. ADHD gets bored quickly and needs a fast-paced thought process to keep it occupied so it doesn't get distracted. I also work well under pressure because the pressure keeps my mind focused and doesn't leave room for my mind to wonder about whether the hanging ceiling lights at work are actually in a line parallel to each other or if they're off a few degrees.

With love and insanity equally,

J.M.