Tsinghua has opened a quantum information class. What kind of major is quantum information? Where will it be used?

Peanut butter and chocolate. Rice and soy sauce. Milk and biscuits. When two good things are combined, we can create something better. This is the case with quantum information, which is a combination of quantum physics and computational theory. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has contributed to most of its history and is helping to shape its future.

NIST physicist Carl? Williams said: We have been there from the beginning, and he has been guiding most of the work of this institution in this field since the beginning of the 20th century. We can now see that quantum information has shifted from a purely scientific field to a technical field.

In the near future, the quantum version of traditional computers can carry out complex simulations, thus producing new drugs and high-tech materials. In the long run, a more powerful quantum computer, if it can be built, can quickly break the current digital security to protect online banking and shopping. But don't be afraid: post-quantum encryption can also protect data from quantum network attacks initiated by opponents. Quantum random number generator can generate the most unpredictable numbers in real time for encryption and other purposes.

In the next decade, many other quantum information applications may appear on the market. They include advanced quantum sensors that can find underground oil and mineral deposits. Quantum information technology may lead to new portable navigation devices. Even if the GPS network is disturbed or destroyed, soldiers can use these devices to find their own way.

NIST has always been the core of this quantum information revolution, because it has a wide range of scientific expertise and a culture of cultivating interaction between professionals in many fields.

It is worth noting that the partnership between NIST University and public universities has created specialized research institutions that combine the great potential of curiosity-driven research with the resources of the federal government.

Gretchen, co-director of JQI? Campbell said: This really allows scientists to study quantum phenomena from different aspects, learn to share ideas and learn to speak each other's language, thus promoting the progress in this field faster. ? The quantum revolution is now spreading beyond universities and federal laboratories. The company is investing hundreds of millions of dollars in a competition to build quantum computers, which is expected to subvert the industry and greatly improve the technology.