New Quantum Algorithm Factors Numbers With One Qubit
1 min read
Summary
Scientists at the Technical University of Munich have created a quantum computer algorithm capable of factoring any integer with just one qubit and three adjustable oscillators.
The algorithm requires an exponentially greater amount of energy than a million-qubit computer, making it impractical for use at this stage, but the researchers believe their technique of using oscillators could point to more energy-efficient ways to factor numbers in the future.
Aram Harrow, a physicist at MIT, said the paper “can’t ever make sense to do your entire calculation this way”, but the Munich group is already looking at ways to decrease the energy requirements.
Factoring large numbers is a computationally expensive procedure, with applications in data encryption and breaking codes, among other areas.
Currently, quantum computers are seen as a potential way to perform such computations much faster than classical computers, although the technology remains in its relative infancy.
