Quantum computing. 3

For part 2, see ibid., September/October (2001). Every now and then surprising new theories appear on the scientific stage that hold the promise of dramatic new technologies. Quantum computing is one of these. The ideas in this field radically change the way we think about computers and computing. in my last two columns, I introduced the theory of quantum computing and presented its basic terminology and notation. In this installment, I wrap up my discussion of the subject by presenting some interesting quantum algorithms and then showing how quantum computing can change the world of cryptography, or the sharing of secrets