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arXiv:quant-ph/0207118quant-ph

From Cbits to Qbits: Teaching computer scientists quantum mechanics

N. David Mermin

Abstract

A strategy is suggested for teaching mathematically literate students, with no background in physics, just enough quantum mechanics for them to understand and develop algorithms in quantum computation and quantum information theory. Although the article as a whole addresses teachers of physics, well versed in quantum mechanics, the central pedagogical development is addressed directly to computer scientists and mathematicians, with only occasional asides to their teacher. Physicists uninterested in quantum pedagogy may be amused (or irritated) by some of the views of standard quantum mechanics that arise naturally from this unorthodox perspective.

arXiv comments
19 pages, no figures. Submitted to the American Journal of Physics
Journal reference
American Journal of Physics Vol. 71, 23-30 (2003)
DOI
doi:10.1119/1.1522741
Subjects
quant-phQuantum Physics

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Linked by 3 identifiable commenters in 4 comments across 4 threads, from Jul 2015 to Aug 2018.

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Discussed in comments4 threads

  1. How could a software dev build a bottom-up understanding of quantum computing? 1 comment

    • An accessible quick introduction. This abstract links to a 19-page pdf: From Cbits to Qbits: Teaching computer scientists quantum mechanics N. David Mermin https://arxiv.org/abs/quant-ph/0207118 After that, the textbook by Nielsen and Chuang, Quantum Computation and Quantum…

      jonjackyView on HNParent context

  2. Quantum A.I. Publications 1 comment

    • David Mermin has written a very good introduction specifically targeted towards computer scientists and mathematicians looking to learn and contribute to this field. His book "Quantum Computer Science" is really great, and I highly recommend reading it if you're interested in…

      h2j24View on HNParent context

  3. The Machine of Tomorrow Today: Quantum Computing on the Verge 1 comment

    • Sure. Here are a few resources; they vary in technical complexity and depth of coverage, but they're all rigorous: Scott Aaronson has a good introductory article in Scientific American[1], and he also wrote a short, accessible article aimed at high school students in 2002[2].…

      dsaccoView on HNParent context

  4. Ask HN: What's a good intro to quantum computing? 1 comment

    • Here is a nice short (19 page) introduction: From Cbits to Qbits: Teaching computer scientists quantum mechanics by N. David Mermin http://arxiv.org/abs/quant-ph/0207118 The standard (very big) textbook is Nielsen and Chuang, Quantum Computing and Quantum Information. It answers…

      jonjackyView on HNParent context

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