Quantum computing: how It could transform our world

The race is on to build quantum computers. Described as “nuclear bombs for the internet,” quantum computers would make obsolete all the security and encryption methods now in place that make e-commerce — and modern digital life — possible. But quantum computers also promise to solve complex problems thought to be impossible without quantum technology, for example providing accurate weather predictions and designs for new quantum materials with astounding properties. Barry Sanders, Director of the Institute for Quantum Information Science at the U. of C. brings us up-to-date on the race to build quantum computers, worldwide and here in Alberta.