350 research outputs found
What is a quantum computer, and how do we build one?
The DiVincenzo criteria for implementing a quantum computer have been seminal
in focussing both experimental and theoretical research in quantum information
processing. These criteria were formulated specifically for the circuit model
of quantum computing. However, several new models for quantum computing
(paradigms) have been proposed that do not seem to fit the criteria well. The
question is therefore what are the general criteria for implementing quantum
computers. To this end, a formal operational definition of a quantum computer
is introduced. It is then shown that according to this definition a device is a
quantum computer if it obeys the following four criteria: Any quantum computer
must (1) have a quantum memory; (2) facilitate a controlled quantum evolution
of the quantum memory; (3) include a method for cooling the quantum memory; and
(4) provide a readout mechanism for subsets of the quantum memory. The criteria
are met when the device is scalable and operates fault-tolerantly. We discuss
various existing quantum computing paradigms, and how they fit within this
framework. Finally, we lay out a roadmap for selecting an avenue towards
building a quantum computer. This is summarized in a decision tree intended to
help experimentalists determine the most natural paradigm given a particular
physical implementation
Introduction: Homage to Walter Freeman III
Introduction to the third special edition on the Foundations of Mind: Foundations of Mind: Hommage to Walter Freeman II
A New Objective Definition of Quantum Entanglement as Potential Coding of Intensive and Effective Relations.
In this paper we consider the notion of quantum entanglement from the perspective of the logos categorical approach [13, 14]. In [16] we argued that the widespread distinction between separable states and entangled states is completely superfluous from a purely mathematical perspective. In this paper we attempt to discuss how the logos approach is able to provide not only an objective formal account of the notion of entanglement --completely independent of separability-- in terms of potential coding. For this purpose we will introduce the necessary distinction between intensive relations and effective relations. Finally we will argue that our logos redefinition of entanglement allows to provide an anschaulich content to this supposedly "spooky" quantum relational feature
The Logos Categorical Approach to Quantum Mechanics: III. Relational Potential Coding and Quantum Entanglement Beyond Collapses, Pure States and Particle Metaphysics.
In this paper we consider the notion of quantum entanglement from the perspective of the logos categorical approach [26, 27]. Firstly, we will argue that the widespread distinctions, on the one hand, between pure states and mixed states, and on the other, between separable states and entangled states, are completely superfluous when considering the orthodox mathematical formalism of QM. We will then argue that the introduction of these distinctions within the theory of quanta is due to another two completely unjustified metaphysical presuppositions, namely, the idea that there is a “collapse” of quantum states when being measured and the idea that QM talks about “elementary particles”. At distance from these distinctions and taking the logos approach as a standpoint, we will propose an objective formal account of the notion of entanglement in terms of potential coding which introduces the necessary distinction between intensive relations and effective relations. We will also discuss how this new definition of entanglement provides an anschaulich content to this —supposedly “spooky”— quantum relational feature
Humanities’ metaphysical underpinnings of late frontier scientific research
The behavior/structure methodological dichotomy as locus of scientific inquiry
is closely related to the issue of modeling and theory change in scientific explanation.
Given that the traditional tension between structure and behavior in scientific modeling is
likely here to stay, considering the relevant precedents in the history of ideas could help us
better understand this theoretical struggle. This better understanding might open up
unforeseen possibilities and new instantiations, particularly in what concerns the proposed
technological modification of the human condition. The sequential structure of this paper is
twofold. The contribution of three philosophers better known in the humanities than in the
study of science proper are laid out. The key theoretical notions interweaving the whole
narrative are those of mechanization, constructability and simulation. They shall provide
the conceptual bridge between these classical thinkers and the following section. Here, a
panoramic view of three significant experimental approaches in contemporary scientific
research is displayed, suggesting that their undisclosed ontological premises have deep
roots in the Western tradition of the humanities. This ontological lock between core
humanist ideals and late research in biology and nanoscience is ultimately suggested as
responsible for pervasively altering what is canonically understood as “human”
- …