Introduction to Quantum Error Correction

Synopsis

Quantum computing promises to exceed the capabilities of classical computers for certain classes of problems by utilizing uniquely quantum resources such as entanglement and superposition. However, interactions with the environment can disrupt the fragile quantum states used for computation in such a way that the computation no longer yields a meaningful result. It is thus necessary to be able to both detect and correct errors on the system as they arise to maintain the desired computational advantage. By employing error correction techniques, the regime of fault-tolerant quantum computing may become feasible. In this talk, I will introduce the notion of quantum error correction, and present some quintessential codes that have been developed, as well as discuss some experimental approaches.