Covering both theory and progressive experiments, Quantum Computing: From Linear Algebra to Physical Realizations explains how and why superposition and entanglement provide the enormous computational power in quantum computing. This self-contained, classroom-tested book is divided into two sections, with the first devoted to the theoretical aspects of quantum computing and the second focused on several candidates of a working quantum computer, evaluating them according to the DiVincenzo criteria.

Topics in Part I

• Linear algebra
• Principles of quantum mechanics
• Qubit and the first application of quantum information processing—quantum key distribution
• Quantum gates
• Simple yet elucidating examples of quantum algorithms
• Quantum circuits that implement integral transforms
• Practical quantum algorithms, including Grover’s database search algorithm and Shor’s factorization algorithm
• The disturbing issue of decoherence
• Important examples of quantum error-correcting codes (QECC)

Topics in Part II

• DiVincenzo criteria, which are the standards a physical system must satisfy to be a candidate as a working quantum computer
• Liquid state NMR, one of the well-understood physical systems
• Ionic and atomic qubits
• Several types of Josephson junction qubits
• The quantum dots realization of qubits

Looking at the ways in which quantum computing can become reality, this book delves into enough theoretical background and experimental research to support a thorough understanding of this promising field.