National University of Singapore

UIT2205: Quantum Computing and Information

Course Description

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The module aims to provide an introduction to the field of quantum computing. While very much a technology of the future, the module will examine some of the possibilities that the quantum world offers in advancing the capabilities of computers and how our notion of information has evolved. Essentially the module showcases, two major paradigm shifts; one from classical physics to quantum physics and the other from the standard Turing principle in computer science to its modern quantum counterpart. The module is intended for all students in the Scholars Programme.

Aims and objectives

Students will acquire the basic principles that underlie quantum physics and computer science and gain insights into some of the fascinating revolutions that are currently taking place. It will draw upon the limitations of the classical views in computing and the challenges they've been subjected to. These will provide students with an excellent opportunity to appreciate how scientific tenets can be challenged and the analysis that goes with such revolutions. Topics covered will engage students to critically analyze some of the bizarre implications of the quantum world, to make sense of notions that are sometimes perceived as incomprehensible.

Syllabus

1. Introduction
• Moore's Law and the trend towards Miniaturization
• Problems with current technology at Nanoscales
2. Computing Machinery - What computers can and cannot do
• Theory of Computation
• Computer Organization
3. A Peak into the Quantum Realm
• The Quantum Revolution
• Basics of Quantum Mechanics
4. Taking the Quantum Leap - Quantum Computers
• Quantum Gates and Quantum Circuits
• Quantum Turing Machines
• Examples of Quantum Algorithms
5. Breaking the "Unbreakable" Codes
• Classical Cryptography
• Code Breaking
6. Quantum Cryptography - The Keys to Quantum Secrets
• Private Key Cryptography
• Quantum Key Distribution
• The security of quantum Key distribution
7. Quantum Teleportation - Fact or Fiction?
• Non-Locality in Quantum theory
• Quantum Teleportation
8. How to Build a Quantum Computer
• Heteropolymer- Based Quantum Computers
• Ion-Trap-based Quantum Computers
• Cavity QED-based Quantum Computers

NMR- based Quantum Computers

Assessment

Modes of Teaching and Learning

The module will consists of weekly lectures that will showcase some of the major developments in the field. The ideas and discussions broached during lectures will be further reinforced in tutorials where students will undertake to solve problems and make oral presentations of short essays. The former would focus mainly on the analytical abilities while the latter will engage students in a more inquiry-based mode of learning. Assessment activities will include presentation of tutorial exercises and essays. Students will be expected to present their material during tutorial classes in an interactive mode. Students, in groups of two or three, will also be expected to carry out literature reviews of selected journal articles and present their work during tutorial sessions. Assessment will also include short quizzes and a final examination.

Basic Reading List

Compulsory reading

1. Explorations in Quantum Computing by C. P. Willams and S.C. Clearwater, Springer Verlag, 1997; (Chapters 1 - 9, 11)
2. Quantum Mechanics and Experience, by D.Z. Albert, Harvard University Press, 1992; (Chapters 1 -5)
3. The Quantum Universe by T. Heys and P. Walters,Cambridge University Press; 1987; Chapters 1-3
4. Feynman Lectures on Computation by Richard P. Feynman, Addison- Wesley Publishing Company, Inc, 1996; Chapters 1-3

Supplementary reading

5. The History of Computers by Les Freed, Ziff-Davis Press, 1995;
6. Discovering Computers - Concepts for a Digital World 2002, G.B. Shelly, T.J. Cashman & M.E. Vermaat, Course Technology, 2001;
7. Computer Science - An Overview, by J.G. Brookshear, Addison Wesley, 2000 (Sixth edition);
8. The Emperor's New Mind, by R. Penrose, Oxford University Press, 1998;
9. Minds, Machines and the Multiverse , Julian Brown, Simon & Schuster, 2000;
10. The Feynman Processor, by G. J. Milburn, Perseus Books, 1998;
11. Quantum Computation and Quantum Information, by M.A. Nielsen and I. L. Chuang, Cambridge University Press, 2000;
12. Introduction to Quantum Computers, G.P. Berman, G.D. Doolen, R. Mainieri and V.I Tsifrinovich, World Scientific, 1998;