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Scientists Find Flaw in Quantum Dot Construction

Posted by Zonk on from the you-changed-the-outcome-by-measuring-it! dept.

ThePolkapunk writes "Scientists have been having problems in predicting the behavior of Quantum Dots, which are considered to be the most likely material to be used to build nanocomputers. Physorg is reporting that physicists at Ohio University believe they've found the problem, and it's with a flaw in the construction of quantum dots. If their theory pans out, "It's one more step towards the holy grail of finding a better quantum bit, which hopefully will lead to a quantum computer."" We first mentioned this about six years ago.

2 of 180 comments (clear)

  1. I guess this seems as good a place as anywhere by mcc · · Score: 4, Interesting

    to ask this...

    The guy who wrote "the wellstone" is convinced that quantum dots can also be used to create programmable matter, something he came up with in one of his science fiction books.

    I am just curious. Is this (programmable matter via quantum wells/dots) something that actual work is being done on anywhere, or that actual signs of progress can be seen in, or that Mr. McCarthy has the actual capacity to encourage actual science work to be done on? Or is this just a lone science fiction author running around trying to convince people to take him seriously?

    --
    Irritable, left-wing and possibly humorous bumper stickers and t-shirts
  2. Re:Do we need quantum bits? by necama · · Score: 4, Interesting

    Quantum key distribution is cryptographically equivalent to one time pads, but better -- it solves the key distribution problem; you don't need to take all the one-time pads with you when you leave.

    Go watch a fleet prepare for setting to sea, and you'll see them loading one time pads onto the ship by forklift.