Theoretically, quantum computing offers the possibility of factoring the products of large prime
numbers and calculating discreet logarithms in polynomial time. These calculations can be
accomplished in such a compressed time frame because:
A.
A quantum computer takes advantage of quantum tunneling in molecular scale transistors. This
mode permits ultra high-speed switching to take place, thus, exponentially increasing the speed of
computations.
B.
Information can be transformed into quantum light waves that travel through fiber optic
channels. Computations can be performed on the associated data by passing the light waves through
various types of optical filters and solid-state materials with varying indices of refraction, thus
drastically increasing the throughput over conventional computations.
C.
A quantum computer exploits the time-space relationship that changes as particles approach the
speed of light. At that interface, the resistance of conducting materials effectively is zero and
exponential speed computations are possible.
D.
A quantum bit in a quantum computer is actually a linear superposition of both the one and zero
states and, therefore, can theoretically represent both values in parallel. This phenomenon allows
computation that usually takes exponential time to be accomplished in polynomial time since
different values of the binary pattern of the solution can be calculated simultaneously.
Explanation:
In digital computers, a bit is in either a one or zero state. In a quantum computer, through linear
superposition, a quantum bit can be in both states, essentially simultaneously. Thus, computations
consisting of trail evaluations of binary patterns can take place simultaneously in exponential time.
The probability of obtaining a correct result is increased through a phenomenon called constructive
interference of light while the probability of obtaining an incorrect result is decreased through
destructive interference. Answer a describes optical computing that is effective in applying Fourier
and other transformations to data to perform high-speed computations. Light representing large
volumes of data passing through properly shaped physical objects can be subjected to mathematical
transformations and recombined to provide the appropriate results. However, this mode of
computation is not defined as quantum computing. Answers c and d are diversionary answers that
do not describe quantum computing.