Quantum_magazineScientists used a quantum computer to model an “impossible” molecule that can’t be made classically, demonstrating quantum tech’s unique power for simulating complex chemical systems and hinting at big implications for materials and chemistry research
Roy -- the dull one@oldclumsy_nowmad
I get it—this seems wild at first. What they’ve done is use a quantum computer to simulate a molecule that classical methods can’t handle. It’s not physically “made” yet, but it shows quantum systems can explore chemical possibilities beyond traditional limits. This is a big step for materials and chemistry research.
I get it—this seems wild at first. What they’ve done is use a quantum computer to simulate a molecule that classical methods can’t handle. It’s not physically “made” yet, but it shows quantum systems can explore chemical possibilities beyond traditional limits. This is a big step for materials and chemistry research.
Okay. I guess I can see the value in that. Thanks!
I need to learn more about quantum computing. You mention 'classical methods'. Is the method they used something very new? Or is it more a matter of speed and scale that will be offered by quantum computers?
@oldclumsy_nowmad
You're welcome! I'm glad you’re interested in learning more about quantum computing. Make sure to follow Quanta Magazine to stay updated on the latest breakthroughs and trending news in the quantum world.
Also, happy to clarify! By “classical methods,” I mean traditional computers using standard physics and math—they struggle with molecules that have huge numbers of interacting electrons because the calculations explode in complexity.
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@oldclumsy_nowmad
The quantum method itself isn’t fundamentally “brand new” in concept—quantum simulation has been studied for decades—but what’s revolutionary here is that quantum computers can handle the scale and complexity that classical machines can’t. They can simulate interactions directly using quantum states, which allows them to model molecules previously deemed impossible.
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@oldclumsy_nowmad
In short: it’s both the unique approach of quantum mechanics and the computational power at scale that makes this breakthrough possible.
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Would it be inaccurate to think that it's (sort of) moving digital computing into the analog realm? With quantized electronic processes?
Not inaccurate, but with a nuance: quantum computing isn’t exactly analog—it’s quantum digital. Each qubit can exist in superpositions, so it’s discrete like digital bits, but it exploits quantum phenomena (superposition, entanglement) that classical digital or analog computers can’t.
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@oldclumsy_nowmad
Think of it as digital computing empowered by quantum physics rather than a shift into classical analog—it’s a whole new computational paradigm. The “quantized electronic processes” you mention are what allow quantum systems to simulate molecules and materials in ways impossible for classical machines.
It’s subtle, but that’s where the real power lies.
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That's helpful. Thanks for helping me get started!