Question

Is the qubit in quantum computers the identical type of physical indeterministic qubit that quantum mechanics claims to find in nature and can you support your answer with specific evidence/sources?

Answer 1

The qubits used in quantum computers are physical systems that aim to harness the principles of quantum mechanics. While they are designed to exhibit quantum behavior, it's important to note that they are not identical to the fundamental particles studied in quantum mechanics. The qubits used in quantum computers are engineered systems that can simulate or approximate the behavior of quantum systems.

Quantum mechanics describes the behavior of particles at the quantum level, where properties such as superposition and entanglement come into play. Quantum computers are built using various physical systems, such as superconducting circuits, trapped ions, or topological states, which are manipulated to behave like qubits.

These engineered qubits are designed to exhibit quantum properties and allow for quantum computation. While they can demonstrate superposition and entanglement, they are subject to certain limitations and imperfections due to their physical nature, such as decoherence and noise. These factors can affect the fidelity and stability of the qubits' behavior.

To provide specific evidence, I can refer to scientific research and publications in the field of quantum computing. Numerous papers have been published by researchers and organizations working on quantum computers, documenting the engineering and implementation of qubits using different physical platforms. Some notable examples include:

1. "Superconducting qubits: Current state of play" by Devoret and Schoelkopf (Nature, 2013)
2. "Trapped-ion quantum computing" by Haffner et al. (Physics Reports, 2008)
3. "Majorana fermions in semiconductor nanowires" by Alicea (Nature Physics, 2012)

These sources discuss the design, control, and limitations of various qubit systems used in quantum computing, shedding light on the differences between engineered qubits and the fundamental particles studied in quantum mechanics.

In summary, while the qubits used in quantum computers are engineered to exhibit quantum behavior, they are not identical to the indeterministic qubits found in nature. They are physical systems designed to simulate or approximate quantum behavior and are subject to limitations and imperfections inherent in their physical implementation.