# QR11: What is Quantum Supremacy ?
Quantum supremacy is a term coined by John Preskill of Caltech that is used to describe the point at which a quantum computer can outperform classical computers in certain specific tasks. It demonstrates that a quantum computer can solve problems that are practically infeasible for classical computers within a reasonable amount of time.
Google claimed to have achieved quantum supremacy in 2019 with its 53-qubit quantum processor named Sycamore. However, this claim was contested by IBM, stating that the task performed by Google’s quantum processor could be simulated on a classical computer in a reasonable amount of time, therefore not truly demonstrating quantum supremacy.
Quantum Supremacy refers to the point at which a quantum computer can outperform the most powerful classical supercomputers in solving a specific problem. Unlike traditional computers that rely on bits, quantum computers leverage quantum bits or qubits, which can exist in multiple states simultaneously. This unique capability allows quantum computers to process vast amounts of data and perform complex calculations at an unprecedented speed.
Achieving Quantum Supremacy is not merely about building faster computers; it’s about fundamentally altering our approach to computation and problem-solving. This milestone opens the door to solving previously insurmountable problems in fields such as cryptography, drug discovery, and materials science.
While Quantum Supremacy represents an exciting leap forward, it’s essential to recognize that this is just the beginning of the quantum computing journey. As we navigate this transformative era, understanding the implications of Quantum Supremacy will be crucial in shaping the future of computing and technological innovation.
The term “Quantum Supremacy” coined by John Preskill has been criticized for its potential to be misinterpreted as implying superiority of quantum computing over classical computing in all aspects, which can lead to misunderstandings and controversy. It has been suggested that alternative terms like “Quantum Advantage” may be more appropriate to avoid such connotations.
Achieving quantum supremacy is not the end goal but rather a step towards the broader application of quantum computing. It underscores the importance of continued research, development, and ethical considerations as quantum computing progresses towards more practical and impactful applications.
Quantum Supremacy explained (8 minutes) : https://youtu.be/90U_SmKyfGI?si=Ug3igdtX-KR-u3Op
A short (~ 2 minutes) video on Quantum Supremacy : https://youtube.com/shorts/puoX8L4Cfws?si=SIEMvDC23Sn9Quml
Video on Quantum Supremacy by Michio Kaku ( ~ 1 hour): https://youtu.be/_OjRClPzU6Y?si=3SK9hXkdmuZEBwoE
Wikipedia entry on Quantum Supremacy : https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quantum_supremacy
Researchers view quantum supremacy as primarily a scientific goal, with relatively little immediate bearing on the future commercial viability of quantum computing.
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About mmpant
Prof. M.M.Pant has a Ph.D in Computational Physics, along with a Professional Law Degree, and has been a practitioner in the fields of Law, IT enabled education and IT implementation.
Drawing upon his experience in world class international institutions and having taught in various modes of Face-to-Face, Distance Learning and Technology Enhanced Training, Prof. Pant is now exploring the nature of institutions which will be successors to the IITs, which represented the 1960s, IIMs, which represented the 1970 and Open Universities which were the rage of 1980s & 90s.
He believes that the convergence between various media and technologies would fundamentally alter the way learning would be created, packaged, and delivered to learners. His current activities are all directed toward actual implementation of these new age educational initiatives that transform education in the post Internet post WTO era..
Prof. Pant, has been a Former Pro-Vice Chancellor, Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) and has been on the faculty of IIT – Kanpur (the premier Engineering institution in India), MLNR Engineering College and Faculty & Visiting Professor - University of Western Ontario-Canada.
He has been visiting scientist to research centers in Italy, England, Germany & Sweden and has delivered international lectures with about 80 papers published.
During his association of almost 15 years with the IGNOU, Prof. Pant has served as the Director Computing and has been the Member of All Bodies (i.e. School boards, Academic council, Planning board, Finance committee and the Board of management).
With his interest in Law, backed with practice of Law in a High Court, and his basic training in Science and IT, Prof. Pant has been particularly interested in the Cyber Law, Patent & trade mark issues, Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) issues etc. and has been involved with many activities, conferences on “Law & IT”
Prof. Pant is presently;
• Advisor to Media Lab Asia - Chairman of working group on ICT for Education, chairman of PRSG handling projects on ICT for education.
• Lead Consultant for an ADB funded project for ICT in Basic Education in Uzbekistan
• Member of the drafting Group for India’s National Policy on ICT in education
• Chairman of the group creating books for class 11 and 12 students on ‘Computers and Communication Technology’ appointed by the NCERT
• Preparing a ‘Theme Paper” for the NCTE in the area of ICT and Teacher Training
• Advisor and mentor to several leading Indian and Multi-national Companies in the area of education.
Prof. Pant has in the recent past been ;
• Member – Board of Management – I I T, Delhi for 6 years (two consecutive terms)
• One-man committee to create the Project Report & Legislation for Delhi IT-enabled Open University
• Advisor to the Delhi Government on Asian Network of Major Cities Project (ANMC-21) distance learning project in association with Tokyo Metropolitan Government.
• Chairman Board of Studies, All India Management Association
With his mission to create and implement new business opportunities in the area of e-learning & learning facilitation, Prof. Pant has promoted Planet EDU Pvt. Ltd., as its Founder & Chairman, along with a team of highly experienced and skilled professionals from Education & Training, Operations, IT and Finance.
