Quantum Computing in Action

Quantum computing is on the horizon and you can get started today! This practical, clear-spoken guide shows you don’t need a physics degree to write your first quantum software.

In Quantum Computing in Action you will learn:

• An introduction to the core concepts of quantum computing
• Qubits and quantum gates
• Superposition, entanglement, and hybrid computing
• Quantum algorithms including Shor’s, Deutsch-jozsa, and Grover’s search

Quantum Computing in Action shows you how to leverage your existing Java skills into writing your first quantum software, so you’re ready for the quantum revolution. This book is focused on practical implementations of quantum computing algorithms—there’s no deep math or confusing theory. Using Strange, a Java-based quantum computer simulator, you’ll go hands-on with quantum computing’s core components including qubits and quantum gates.

About the technology

Quantum computing promises unimaginably fast performance for tasks like encryption, scientific modeling, manufacturing logistics, financial modeling, and AI. Developers can explore quantum computing now using free simulators, and increasingly powerful true quantum systems are gradually becoming available for production use. This book gives you a head start on quantum computing by introducing core concepts, key algorithms, and the most beneficial use cases.

About the book

Quantum Computing in Action is a gentle introduction to the ideas and applications of quantum computing. After briefly reviewing the science that makes quantum tick, it guides you through practical implementations of quantum computing algorithms. You’ll write your first quantum code and explore qubits and quantum gates with the Java-based Strange quantum simulator. You’ll enjoy the interesting examples and insightful explanations as you create quantum algorithms using standard Java and your favorite IDE and build tools.

What’s inside

• An introduction to the core concepts of quantum computing
• Qubits and quantum gates
• Superposition, entanglement, and hybrid computing
• Quantum algorithms including Shor’s, Deutsch-jozsa, and Grover’s search

About the reader

For Java developers. No advanced math knowledge required.

About the author

Johan Vos is a cofounder of Gluon, a Java technology company. He is a Java Champion and holds an MSc in Mining Engineering and a PhD in Applied Physics.

Table of Contents

PART 1 QUANTUM COMPUTING INTRODUCTION

1 Evolution, revolution, or hype?

2 “Hello World,” quantum computing style

3 Qubits and quantum gates: The basic units in quantum computing

PART 2 FUNDAMENTAL CONCEPTS AND HOW THEY RELATE TO CODE

4 Superposition

5 Entanglement

6 Quantum networking: The basics

PART 3 QUANTUM ALGORITHMS AND CODE

7 Our HelloWorld, explained

8 Secure communication using quantum computing

9 Deutsch-Jozsa algorithm

10 Grover’s search algorithm

11 Shor’s algorithm

Review

“An amazingly accessible introduction to quantum computing.”

—Harro Lissenberg, Qualogy

“Ideal for developers with no prior knowledge of quantum physics.”

—Kelum Prabath Senanayake, Echoworx

“An essential reference for this emerging topic.”

—Nathan B. Crocker, Galaxy Digital

“All you need to know about quantum computing and how it differs from classical programming!”

—Jean-François Morin, Laval University 

About the Author

Johan Vos is a cofounder of Gluon, a Java technology company that aims to offer Java solutions for all platforms including desktop, embedded, and mobile apps, and connect them to the cloud. He is a Java Champion and holds an MSc in Mining Engineering and a PhD in Applied Physics.