Chemistry may not be the 'killer app' for quantum computers after all - New Scientist
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Calculating the chemical properties of molecules could be a job for quantum computersETH Zurich Quantum chemistry calculations that could advance drug development or agriculture have recently emerged as a promising “killer application” of quantum computers, but a new analysis suggests this is unlikely to be the case. Progress in building quantum computers has greatly accelerated in recent years, but it remains an open question what uses are most likely to justify the ongoing investment in this technology. One popular contender is solving problems in quantum chemistry, such as calculating the energy levels of molecules relevant for biomedicine or industry. This requires accounting for the behavior of many quantum particles – electrons in the molecule – simultaneously, so it seems like a good match for computers made from many quantum parts. Advertisement Receive a weekly dose of discovery in your inbox. We'll also keep you up to date with New Scientist events and special offers.