Explain how quantum computers compute like I am 10

[jpod]

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-50154993

If you understand something you can explain it easy....so how come they are so powerful?

I understand quantum can be both 0 and 1, two states at the same time. So how does that work?

And will Ctrl Alt Del still work?

And another thing - what amazing things will they enable us to do?

And when will OC be selling them? When will they be personal PCs?

pod

 

[jpod]

"Explain how quantum computers compute like I am 10"

Thread title promised a binary bit/qubit joke. I am disappoint.

How about the thing about binary is there are two types of people; those that understand it and those who don't. But with quantum they both understand it and don't at the same time?

Great answers fellas so far - very interesting - thank you.

Instead of switching it off and then on again - it will be have you warmed it up and then cooled it to 0 degrees kelvin!