Quantum Computer — Questions and answers

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What did Richard Feynman think was a good problem for a computer to try and solve?

Choices

  1. Simulating quantum mechanics ✓
  2. Playing a game of checkers
  3. Building a new type of car
  4. Writing a book about computers

Answer: Simulating quantum mechanics

From page 1

What was Richard Feynman's big idea about how to simulate nature better?

Choices

  1. He thought computers should be faster.
  2. He proposed making a computer that was quantum mechanical itself. ✓
  3. He suggested using more classical computers together.
  4. He wanted computers to be able to talk.

Answer: He proposed making a computer that was quantum mechanical itself.

From page 3

Who developed the first detailed theoretical model of a quantum computer?

Choices

  1. Richard Feynman
  2. Paul Benioff ✓
  3. David Deutsch
  4. Albert Einstein

Answer: Paul Benioff

From page 4

What was a big challenge in building early physical quantum computers?

Choices

  1. Making them too big to fit in a room.
  2. Keeping the quantum states safe from outside interference. ✓
  3. Finding enough electricity to power them.
  4. Teaching people how to use them.

Answer: Keeping the quantum states safe from outside interference.

From page 5

What was special about Peter Shor's algorithm for quantum computers?

Choices

  1. It helped quantum computers play video games.
  2. It showed quantum computers could fold laundry faster.
  3. It proved quantum computers could factor large numbers much faster than classical computers. ✓
  4. It made quantum computers smaller.

Answer: It proved quantum computers could factor large numbers much faster than classical computers.

From page 8

What are some different ways scientists are trying to build quantum computers today?

Choices

  1. Using only wood and plastic.
  2. Using superconducting qubits, trapped ions, and photonic systems. ✓
  3. Using only hot air and magnets.
  4. Using paper and pencils.

Answer: Using superconducting qubits, trapped ions, and photonic systems.

From page 9

Which field could quantum computers help revolutionize according to the text?

Choices

  1. Making faster race cars.
  2. Discovering new drugs and materials. ✓
  3. Building taller buildings.
  4. Improving cooking recipes.

Answer: Discovering new drugs and materials.

From page 10