How does quantum annealing work?

Quantum annealing is a quantum computing approach used to find the global minimum of a cost function representing an optimization problem. It leverages quantum mechanics principles to explore the solution space efficiently.

Quantum Annealing vs. Classical Annealing

Classical annealing involves slowly cooling a system to reach its ground state, while quantum annealing uses quantum fluctuations to explore possible solutions.

Key Concepts

• Quantum Mechanics: Quantum annealing exploits superposition and entanglement to consider multiple solutions simultaneously.
• Ising Model: Problems are formulated as an Ising model, where variables interact through a defined energy function.
• Quantum Algorithms: Quantum Annealing uses quantum algorithms to solve optimization problems efficiently.

Real-World Applications

Quantum annealing has implications in various fields, including:

• Artificial Intelligence: Enhanced optimization for machine learning models.
• Optimization Problems: Tackling complex optimization problems in supply chain management, finance, and logistics.
• Quantum Technology: Advancing quantum technology through improved optimization capabilities.

Companies like D-Wave Systems have leveraged quantum annealing in developing quantum computers for real-world problem-solving.