Quantum qumputer question - Tilted Forum Project Discussion Community

BentNotTwisted · 08-19-2003, 12:34 PM

I have an interest in quantum computers. One phrase I consistently see in articles about them is an "electron which is isolated from its environment" enters superposition. I have a rough idea of what superposition means. Does anyone know what 'isolated from it's environment' means?

Kadath · 08-19-2003, 12:56 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by BentNotTwisted
I have an interest in quantum computers. One phrase I consistently see in articles about them is an "electron which is isolated from its environment" enters superposition. I have a rough idea of what superposition means. Does anyone know what 'isolated from it's environment' means?

I'd say outside an electron shell, where electrons usually hang out.

BentNotTwisted · 08-19-2003, 01:40 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Kadath
I'd say outside an electron shell, where electrons usually hang out.

So, you're saying they use single electrons in a vacuum? That makes sense, except there are some researchers trying to make a quantum computer by manipulating an electron on the surface buckey ball. That buckey ball would have atoms and the electron would just be part of the ball, wouldn't it? I've heard quantum computers require very cold temperatures near absolute zero, maybe that has something to do with it.

Yodo · 08-19-2003, 03:28 PM

You need a very low temp in order to slow down the electron. That in turn isolates it from the environtment.

08-19-2003, 12:34 PM	#1 (permalink)
BentNotTwisted Optimistic Skeptic Location: Midway between a Beehive and Centennial	Quantum qumputer question I have an interest in quantum computers. One phrase I consistently see in articles about them is an "electron which is isolated from its environment" enters superposition. I have a rough idea of what superposition means. Does anyone know what 'isolated from it's environment' means? __________________ IS THAT IT ???!!! Do you even know what 'it' is? When the last man dies for just words that he said... We Shall Be Free

08-19-2003, 03:28 PM	#4 (permalink)
Yodo Upright	You need a very low temp in order to slow down the electron. That in turn isolates it from the environtment.