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Google has initiated a $5 million global competition to discover practical applications for quantum computers

Google has initiated a worldwide competition in collaboration with XPRIZE and the Geneva Science and Diplomacy Anticipator (GESDA) to utilize quantum computing for practical problems.

Quantum computers leverage quantum mechanics to tackle problems that surpass the capabilities of traditional computers and even supercomputers. It is anticipated that as technology advances, computers will become capable of performing intricate calculations in fields such as drug discovery and molecular behavior modeling.

Exploring molecular behavior through brute force, a classical supercomputer utilizes its numerous processors to examine all potential molecular interactions. However, once it progresses beyond the basic molecules, the supercomputer encounters a roadblock. According to IBM, no computer currently possesses the working memory capacity to process all potential permutations of molecular behavior through existing methods.

Quantum algorithms introduce a fresh perspective to these intricate problems by developing multidimensional computational spaces. It appears to be a more effective method for tackling intricate issues, such as chemical simulations.

This field is quite thrilling. Every few months, there’s always buzz about a significant new development or achievement in quantum computing and how it’s poised to revolutionize the world. Despite the excitement surrounding them, quantum computers still lack practical applications. Indeed, companies are currently developing the initial quantum computing operating system.

“While there are many reasons to be optimistic about the potential of quantum computing, we’re still somewhat in the dark about the full scope of how, when, and for which real-world problems this technology will prove most transformative,” Google stated in a press release unveiling the new competition.

“The launch of this prize aims to illuminate these questions, encouraging the community to further explore and predict the positive impact of quantum computing on society.”

The competition, spanning three years, invites participants to create applications for quantum computing with a focus on societal benefits. During the initial round, participants must outline the issue they aim to address and estimate the time required for a quantum computer to solve it using their algorithm.

Out of the pool of competitors, a maximum of 20 teams will progress to the finals and split the initial $1 million prize. In the upcoming round, contestants must demonstrate the potential speed and accuracy advantages of quantum computers compared to traditional ones. Additionally, they need to explain how these calculations could benefit society. The top three candidates or teams will receive $3 million, with an additional $1 million going to the runners-up.

For further information, visit the Xprize website.

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