From the course: Quantum Computing Fundamentals

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Measuring a qubit

Measuring a qubit

From the course: Quantum Computing Fundamentals

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Measuring a qubit

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- To know the value or state of a qubit we have to measure it. But there's a particular characteristic of quantum mechanics that prevents us from being able to directly observe the state of a quantum system without disturbing it. - This differs from how we interact with classical computers where we can read bits of data without worrying about changing their state. - When we look at a qubit in super position the act of measuring it destroys that super position. It instantly collapses into one of two basis states of that measurement. - Consider our quantum cafe scenario. Olivia is a hungry qubit caught in a decision super position between soup or salad. We can't magically read her mind to know what she's thinking. There's some probability she'll order the soup and a corresponding probability she'll order the salad. Ah, here comes the waiter. - Excuse me, ma'am, what will you be having? - Salad. - As soon as the waiter…

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