Quantum Technology

Based on the novel principles of quantum mechanics, the potential for quantum computing, communications and sensing is enormous.

Published on:
Diamond

What is Quantum Technology

Quantum technology is grounded in the principles of quantum mechanics—the branch of physics that explains the behaviours of particles, such as atoms and molecules, at the atomic and subatomic levels. These principles allow us to process information in radically new and more powerful ways.

In the first quantum revolution of the 20th century, scientists observed quantum properties that enabled development of technologies that have shaped the modern world. Devices such as lasers, the transistor, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), GPS navigation and semiconductors are just a few examples of how the understanding of quantum mechanics led to practical innovations. These technologies became foundational in fields like electronics, telecommunications, medicine, and computing, forming the backbone of much of today's technological landscape.

The Second Quantum Revolution

Now we stand at the threshold of the second quantum revolution, an era marked by breakthroughs in fields like quantum computing, quantum sensing, and quantum communication. These advances, driven by a deeper understanding of quantum mechanics and the ability to manipulate individual particles with extraordinary precision, are reshaping the future.

This new era is powered by uniquely quantum effects:

  • Superposition — In the quantum world, particles don’t have to choose just one state—they can exist in multiple states at the same time. It’s like a coin that is both heads and tails until you look at it. This principle is what makes quantum computers so powerful, as they can process many possibilities at once instead of step by step.
  • Entanglement —Einstein once called it “spooky action at a distance.” When two particles become entangled, they remain linked no matter how far apart they are—what happens to one instantly affects the other. This strange connection is now being harnessed for ultra-secure quantum communication systems.
  • Tunnelling — Imagine particles “slipping through walls” that should be impenetrable. In the quantum world, electrons can pass through barriers they don’t seem to have enough energy to cross—like digging a secret tunnel through them. This effect underpins technologies we use every day, from semiconductors in smartphones and computers to the nuclear fusion that powers the sun. Scientists are still working to fully understand what happens inside the tunnel itself—a mystery that continues to push the boundaries of physics.

    • By directly harnessing these effects, researchers are building quantum computers, ultra-precise sensors, and unbreakable communication systems. These technologies promise capabilities far beyond what today's classical systems can achieve.

    The rapid pace of development has already sparked significant investment from leading industry players and governments around the world. Australia has emerged as a key player in this revolution. With world-class universities, innovative startups, and strong government investment, the nation is helping to shape how this second quantum revolution unfolds.

    Applications and Areas of Impact

    Quantum technologies are already making their mark in several fields, with some applications commercially available today, while others are still in the research phase. Here are a few areas where quantum technology is set to have a major impact:

    • Quantum communications

      This field applies quantum physics to the secure encoding and transmission of information.

    • Quantum chemistry

      Using quantum technologies to advance the study of large chemical structures and reactions which could accelerate novel drug development.

    • Quantum sensing

      Developing new kinds of detectors that take advantage of the extreme sensitivity of quantum systems.

    • Quantum simulation

      Using tailored quantum systems to understand complex natural phenomena.

    • Quantum computing

      Developing new hardware and software that leverages quantum mechanical effects to process information in fundamentally new ways.

    • Quantum metrology

      Harnessing quantum mechanical properties to improve the precision and accuracy of measurements.

    • Nanofabrication

      Fabricating components such as circuits and other devices at the scale of nanometres.

    • Artificial intelligence

      Using quantum algorithms to enable more powerful machine learning and optimisation.

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    Images courtesy of Macquarie University and the University of Sydney.