Science can be spectacular, and I think an area to watch out for in 2025 is Quantum Science and Technology, particularly Quantum Computing.
Quantum Technology is relatively new. It has considerable potential to impact society and the future of sciences. Quantum Computing applies quantum concepts to information and its processing. There appears to be a race on in the field of computing – raising the question of how and when quantum technology will impact businesses.
This is a serious post about some serious science, but my purpose is just to give you the heads up for what may be to come and to stir your curiosity. Please note that on this particular subject I would defer to others more knowledgeable and experienced (some of whom are contacts of mine).
However, I have written about this subject generally a few times before. If you delve into this subject don’t worry if you find it challenging to understand – many of us do (indeed some experts do as well). A feeling of confusion sometimes shows you are learning and at least you are thinking about it.
My first post on this complex subject was in January 2021 ‘A Quantum Leap in my Learning’. It included some metaphors to aid understanding. I am repeating them again because I think they are still helpful in getting to grips with new ways of thinking which may be necessary.
‘Consider the challenge of finding your way out of a very complex maze or labyrinth. With a classical computer you can think of a stepwise process choosing Left or Right until you find the right path. However, with a quantum computer you can explore all paths at once – can be likened to flushing a bucket of water through the labyrinth.’ That explanation was an ‘aha moment’ for me! 💡
Elsewhere, I have heard that it is like ‘being able to read all the books in a library at once’. The speed and scope of this new technology viewed in this way becomes immediately more apparent to me.
Subsequently, during ESOF2022(EuroScience Open Forum) and beyond we were warned to beware the possible hype around this subject. I think this warning still applies. On the other hand, some possibilities which were deemed science fiction in the past may become reality.
On that note, I’ll finish by wishing you well in your exploration of this subject if it is new to you and I hope you found this helpful. Stay curious…
by Dr Julie Charlesworth 27/01/25
————
See the following links referred to above.
5 things I learned about in 2022, and a quick recap from ESOF2022.