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Quantum Annealing

Definition

Quantum annealing is a computational process that uses quantum mechanics to solve complex optimization problems. This method differs from universal quantum computing by specifically seeking the lowest energy state of a system, which corresponds to the optimal solution for a given problem. It is particularly suited for tasks like drug discovery, materials science, and financial modeling, where finding the best configuration among many possibilities is paramount. While not a direct threat to current cryptographic standards, its advancement contributes to the broader field of quantum computation.