Qubit
The quantum version of a bit. It can carry a mix of 0 and 1 possibilities until it is checked.
Think: a spinning coin, not a coin lying flat.Quantum computing, without the confusing stuff
A different kind of computer.
Quantum computers use tiny pieces of nature to explore many possible answers. They are not faster at everything—but they may solve some problems in powerful new ways.
Start the 3-minute lessonRegular bit
01
It is either 0 or 1.
Qubit
?
Before we measure, it can hold a blend of possibilities.
First, the big idea
Three words to know
You do not need advanced physics to understand the basic flow.
Gate
A simple instruction that changes a qubit. A quantum program is a line of these instructions.
Think: buttons that flip, turn, or connect qubits.Measure
The moment we ask for an answer. The qubit gives us a normal 0 or 1 that we can read.
Think: catching the spinning coin.Under the shell
What is inside a quantum computer?
It is not a tiny laptop. One common design looks like a gold chandelier because layers of equipment protect and control a very small quantum chip.
A super-cold fridge
Keeps the chip colder than outer space so heat does not disturb the qubits.
A quantum chip
Holds the qubits. The chip itself can fit in your hand.
Lots of control wires
Carry carefully timed signals that tell qubits what to do.
Cooling layers
Quantum chip
The large machine mainly keeps a tiny chip cold, quiet, and controlled.
Try it yourself
Play with one qubit
No equations needed. Press a gate, watch the chances change, then measure the qubit.
1. Choose a change
Start at 0
2. See the chances
0
100%1
0%Measurement turns the possibilities into one answer: 0 or 1.