Information, Quantum Mechanics, and the Universe

Abstract

The Universe is the largest known quantum computer, calculating its own evolution in real time according to the laws of quantum mechanics. Here on earth, scientists and engineers have been trying to “tame” quantum mechanics for the purpose of computation. A sufficiently powerful quantum computer could defeat all known methods of secure communication over the internet. Quantum computation can also deliver radical speedup of important problems like database searching, optimization problems and materials design. In this talk, I will try to point out the deep connections between information, quantum mechanics and the Universe, and convey the excitement of researchers who are working to instigate a second quantum revolution.