Google: Quantum computer might be tapping into parallel universes
In a groundbreaking announcement, Google has revealed its latest quantum computing achievement: the quantum chip Willow, which is said to have performed in under five minutes a computational task that would take today’s fastest supercomputers an estimated 10 septillion years to complete.
While the results have been met with both excitement and skepticism, the company’s claim that its quantum computer might be tapping into parallel universes has sparked intense debate in the scientific community.
According to Google Quantum AI founder Hartmut Neven, Willow’s exceptional speed has lent support to the concept that quantum computation operates in a multiverse. This notion, first proposed by physicist David Deutsch, suggests that quantum computers could leverage parallel universes to achieve their rapid results. However, this interpretation is highly controversial.
Critics, including renowned physicist Ethan Siegel, argue that the multiverse theory is not necessarily supported by the success of quantum computing. He pointed out that quantum mechanics can function effectively without invoking the existence of parallel universes.
“You can have quantum mechanics work just fine, both physically and mathematically, without introducing even one parallel universe,” Siegel said.
Quantum technology pushes boundaries of what is possible in computational science
Google’s claims, while ambitious, are rooted in a significant technological leap. The Willow chip operates with 105 qubits, up from the 53 qubits of its predecessor, the Sycamore chip. This increase not only enhances the computational power of the machine but also addresses a key challenge in quantum computing: error correction. With its advanced design, Willow is capable of reducing errors as it scales up, marking a significant step toward practical quantum computing.
The potential applications of quantum computing are vast. Google envisions a future where quantum computers could help discover new medicines, design more efficient batteries for electric cars and accelerate progress in clean energy alternatives.
Critics, however, highlight the narrow scope of the computational task performed by Willow. While the chip’s performance is impressive, the task itself is not a practical application but rather a benchmark designed specifically to showcase quantum speed. German physicist Sabine Hossenfelder suggested that this particular task, which involves generating a random distribution, has no immediate practical value.
As the race for quantum supremacy continues, Google’s announcement has solidified its position as a frontrunner in this emerging field. Other tech giants, including IBM, Amazon and Microsoft, are also racing to develop quantum computers capable of solving real-world problems. The ultimate goal is not just to build faster computers, but to unlock new possibilities in fields ranging from medicine to energy production.
As scientists and engineers continue to push the boundaries of quantum mechanics, the potential applications of this rapidly evolving field continue to expand, shaping the future of technology and scientific discovery. But let’s not forget how many top scientists have warned us about the tremendous danger of technology, especially AI, if used in a maleficent direction, being able to take us as far as to the destruction of human race.
yogaesoteric
January 16, 2025
