Syllabus
GS Paper 3 – Awareness in the fields of IT, Space, Computers, Robotics, Nano-technology, Biotechnology and issues relating to Intellectual Property Rights.
Context
On April 14, the scientific community observed World Quantum Day, an occasion designed to highlight the influence of quantum science in various disciplines.
Quantum Technology and World Quantum Day
Introduction
Quantum Technology, a rapidly evolving field, is a fusion of physics and engineering that leverages the principles of quantum mechanics. This technology operates on the principles of quantum superposition and entanglement, enabling particles to exist in multiple states simultaneously and establishing correlations between particles, respectively. Quantum technology’s potential applications are vast and transformative, ranging from quantum computing and cryptography to sensing and metrology, promising unprecedented advancements in various sectors.
Quantum Technology: An Overview
- Quantum technology is a nascent discipline that combines physics and engineering. This type of technology operates on the principles of quantum mechanics, the study of sub-atomic particles, and includes phenomena such as quantum entanglement, quantum superposition, and quantum tunneling.
- Examples of Quantum Technologies: Emerging quantum technologies include quantum computing, sensors, cryptography, simulation, measurement, imaging, quantum energy generators, and space navigation.
- Impact on Established Fields: The advancement of quantum technologies has a profound impact on established sectors like space exploration, the sustainable energy & cleantech sector, nanomanufacturing, semiconductors, and laser technology.
- Quantum Biology and Quantum Technology: Some scientists are investigating potential links between quantum biology and quantum technology to enhance our understanding of immunology and healthcare. Beyond its primary roots in physics, certain types of quantum technology may also involve chemistry or microbiology.
- India’s Contribution to Quantum Science: India has a rich history in quantum science. The pioneering work of Satyendra Nath Bose on quantum statistics has laid the foundation for many modern quantum technologies, including Bose-Einstein condensation, quantum superconductivity, and quantum information theory.
Terms related to Quantum Technology
- Quantum entanglement is a unique phenomenon in quantum mechanics where the characteristics of two or more particles become interlinked. This interconnection is so strong that the state of one particle cannot be defined independently of the state of the other(s), even when they are separated by vast distances. This implies that the state of one particle is directly connected to the state of another, irrespective of the distance between them. Changes to one particle’s state instantaneously influence the state of the other particle(s), resulting in a kind of eerie action at a distance that contradicts classical intuition.
- Quantum superposition is a fundamental concept in quantum mechanics that posits that a quantum system can exist in several states at once until it is measured. This means that a quantum particle, such as an electron or a photon, can exist in a mixture of different states simultaneously. This is in stark contrast to classical physics, where objects are typically in a single, well-defined state at any given time.
- Quantum tunneling can be likened to a tiny particle passing through a solid barrier, even though it lacks the energy to penetrate it in a classical sense. Picture a ball rolling up against a hill—it shouldn’t be able to roll through to the other side if the hill is too steep. But in the quantum world, there’s a small chance the ball can mysteriously appear on the other side of the hill, without having to climb over it. This peculiar behavior occurs because particles in the quantum realm behave more like waves, and they can slip through barriers that would halt them in the classical world.
Applications of Quantum technology
- Quantum computing: It is a captivating application of quantum mechanics. These machines leverage the power of superposition to perform calculations exponentially faster than traditional computers. They manipulate qubits (quantum bits) that can be 0, 1, or both simultaneously, allowing quantum computers to explore a vast array of possibilities concurrently. This unparalleled processing power holds immense promise for drug discovery, where simulating complex molecules can accelerate the development of life-saving medications.
- Quantum communication: It is another revolutionary application of quantum technology. It uses Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) to establish secure cryptographic keys between parties. By encoding information into the quantum states of particles and leveraging entanglement properties, QKD ensures that any attempt to intercept or eavesdrop on the communication would disturb the quantum state, thereby alerting the parties involved.
- Quantum cryptography: It safeguards sensitive information in critical areas like financial transactions, national security communications, and protecting intellectual property.
- Quantum Technology in the Medical Field: In the medical field, scientists are developing sensors by exploiting the extreme sensitivity of quantum systems to minute changes. These sensors can detect the subtlest variations in magnetic fields, gravity, and temperature. This has profound implications for medical imaging, where ultra-high-resolution MRIs can provide detailed analyses of tissues and organs, aiding in early disease detection and personalized medicine.
- Quantum sensors: It can lead to more precise GPS and navigation systems, which are crucial for autonomous vehicles and various scientific endeavors.
- Quantum metrology: It is a major field of application of quantum mechanics. It encompasses a set of techniques to improve the accuracy of measuring instruments by exploiting quantum effects. In contrast to quantum computing, quantum metrology requires an extremely small number of particles to carry out measurements. As a result, tangible applications have been achieved in various fields. For example, quantum metrology has been used in the LIGO project to measure gravitational waves.
National Quantum Mission (NQM)
- National Quantum Mission (NQM) is an initiative by the Government of India, under the Department of Science and Technology. The mission aims to harness the transformative potential of quantum technology to address national challenges and foster innovation.
- Approval and Funding: The Union Cabinet approved the National Quantum Mission (NQM) on 19th April 2023. The mission has been allocated a total cost of Rs.6003.65 crore for the period from 2023-24 to 2030-31. The aim is to seed, nurture, and scale up scientific and industrial R&D and create a vibrant & innovative ecosystem in Quantum Technology (QT).
- Objectives: The mission will accelerate QT-led economic growth, nurture the ecosystem in the country, and position India as one of the leading nations in the development of Quantum Technologies & Applications (QTA).
- Mission Implementation: The implementation of the mission includes setting up of four Thematic Hubs (T-Hubs) in top academic and National R&D institutes in the following domains:
- Quantum Computing
- Quantum Communication
- Quantum Sensing & Metrology
- Quantum Materials & Devices
Conclusion
In conclusion, Quantum Technology is poised to revolutionize our world, offering solutions to complex problems that are currently beyond the reach of classical systems. Its potential to accelerate computations, secure communications, and enhance sensing capabilities could lead to significant breakthroughs in various fields, including healthcare, communication, navigation, and more. As we continue to explore and understand the quantum world, we are stepping into a new era of technological innovation that could redefine our understanding of reality.
Related Article: Quantum Technologies
Source: PIB
Related PYQs
Why is nanotechnology one of the key technologies of the 21st century? Describe the salient features of Indian Government’s Mission on Nanoscience and Technology and the scope of its application in the development process of the country. [UPSC Civil Services Exam – 2016 Mains]
What do you understand by nanotechnology and how is it helping in health sector? [UPSC Civil Services Exam – 2020 Mains]
Practice Question
Define quantum technology? What are the potential applications of this technology in various fields in the context of National quantum mission initiated by India? [150 words]
How to approach this question?
Introduction:
- Start by defining Quantum Technology.
- Explain it as an emerging field that uses principles of quantum mechanics, including quantum superposition and entanglement.
Body:
- Discuss the potential applications of Quantum Technology. Mention areas like quantum computing, cryptography, sensing, and metrology.
- Bring in the context of India’s National Quantum Mission (NQM). Explain how NQM aims to harness the transformative potential of quantum technology to address national challenges and foster innovation.
- Discuss the specific initiatives under NQM, such as the setting up of Thematic Hubs (T-Hubs) in top academic and National R&D institutes in the domains of Quantum Computing, Quantum Communication, Quantum Sensing & Metrology, and Quantum Materials & Devices.
Conclusion:
- Conclude by emphasizing the transformative potential of Quantum Technology and its significance in the context of national missions like NQM.
- Highlight how it can position India as a leading nation in the development of Quantum Technologies & Applications (QTA).
Remember to provide a balanced answer, incorporating relevant facts and figures, and propose feasible solutions. Structure your answer well, with a clear introduction, body, and conclusion. Also, ensure that your answer is within the word limit specified for the exam. Good luck!