Quantum qumputer question
 

I have an interest in quantum computers. One phrase I consistently see in articles about them is an "electron which is isolated from its environment" enters superposition. I have a rough idea of what superposition means. Does anyone know what 'isolated from it's environment' means? :confused:

Re: Quantum qumputer question
 

I'd say outside an electron shell, where electrons usually hang out.

Re: Re: Quantum qumputer question
 

So, you're saying they use single electrons in a vacuum? That makes sense, except there are some researchers trying to make a quantum computer by manipulating an electron on the surface buckey ball. That buckey ball would have atoms and the electron would just be part of the ball, wouldn't it? I've heard quantum computers require very cold temperatures near absolute zero, maybe that has something to do with it.

You need a very low temp in order to slow down the electron. That in turn isolates it from the environtment.