If you’re a science geek with an interest in physics and sci-fi, you’ve probably heard of Michio Kaku. His books, such as “Physics of the Impossible,” “Physics of the Future,” and “Parallel Worlds,” combine the scientific expertise of a theoretical physics professor with the enthusiasm of a sci-fi fanatic. Kaku’s fascination with science and science fiction began at a young age. As an eight-year-old, he was captivated by the news that Albert Einstein had left behind an unfinished manuscript on his desk. The young Kaku had to know more about this man and his work, and so began his lifelong passion for science.
In his latest book, “Quantum Supremacy,” Kaku argues that quantum computers will be the solution to all of humanity’s problems. He explains that the shift from digital to quantum computing will be a greater leap than the original digital revolution, and everything, from the economy to medicine to warfare, will be turned upside down. Quantum computers use qubits instead of bits, which means they can perform infinitely more computations than digital computers. For example, in 2019, Google’s 53-qubit Sycamore computer could solve a mathematical problem in 200 seconds that would take the fastest digital computer 10,000 years to complete.
However, there is a catch. Quantum computers need to be cooled to near absolute zero to work. Any extraneous vibrations or noise would ruin a quantum calculation. Despite this obstacle, scientists around the world are competing to create bigger and faster quantum computers. Once they succeed, quantum computers will be able to model chemical reactions at the molecular level, allowing us to do chemistry without chemicals. This will revolutionize everything from batteries to vaccines.
Moreover, quantum computers will help us analyze how drugs work at the molecular level, model and test new ones without ever going near a patient, and analyze the human genome in detail. They will also enable us to simulate weather patterns and predict natural disasters with greater accuracy.
Hence, Michio Kaku’s latest book provides a fascinating look into the future of computing and the many ways in which quantum computers will transform our lives. Although there are still some challenges to overcome, Kaku is optimistic about the future of quantum computing and the many benefits it will bring to humanity.
