Want to get entangled?
The world's leading quantum computing-powered dating platform. A "bad idea".
Note: This document is a work in progress (WIP). The current mechanics of MeetQute may change in future iterations.
As we stand at the cusp of a technological renaissance, quantum computing beckons as a game-changer, especially in areas where traditional algorithms have hit their limits. One such area that appears to have hit its limit is online (classical) dating. Say goodbye to the days of swiping and liking based on superficial algorithms; quantum computing heralds a new era in matchmaking.
Recent breakthroughs in quantum computing, both pioneering and historical, have stirred a whirlwind of emotions in the tech community, from awe to apprehension. These advancements leave people wondering: are we on the verge of a quantum era that will eclipse our current classical computing world, or is this just a transient wave of excitement?
In short, how practical is quantum computing, today?
MeetQute was born from these reflections, aiming to harness the unparalleled processing power of quantum computers to create a matchmaking experience that's light-years ahead of today's algorithms. This idea began as an after-lecture thought of clueless Course 6 students in MIT's 18.435 (8.370), envisioning a future where their love lives could finally be catalyzed with quantum tech.
Quantum computing is not just a step up from classical computing; it's a whole new game. Let's break it down:
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Qubit: The fundamental unit of quantum computing. Unlike the binary bit in classical computing which represents either 0 or 1, a qubit can exist in a state of 0, 1, or any quantum superposition of these states. Mathematically, a qubit state
$|\psi\rangle$ can be represented as$|\psi\rangle = \alpha|0\rangle + \beta|1\rangle$ , where$|0\rangle$ and$|1\rangle$ are the basis states, and$\alpha$ and$\beta$ are complex numbers that describe the probability amplitudes of these states.
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Superposition: This principle allows a qubit to be in a combination of both 0 and 1 states at the same time. For example, a qubit in superposition might be represented as
$\frac{1}{\sqrt{2}}(|0\rangle + |1\rangle)$ , indicating equal probabilities of being found in either state upon measurement. -
Entanglement: A phenomenon where the states of two or more qubits become interconnected so that the state of one qubit directly correlates with the state of another, regardless of the distance between them. Mathematically, if two qubits are entangled, their combined state cannot be described independently but only as a whole. For example, the Bell state
$\frac{1}{\sqrt{2}}(|00\rangle + |11\rangle)$ is an entangled state of two qubits.
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Shor's Algorithm: Famous for factoring large numbers exponentially faster than the best-known classical algorithms. Classical algorithms have an exponential runtime of
$O(2^n)$ , while Shor's algorithm runs in polynomial time, approximately$O(n^3)$ , for n-bit numbers. -
Grover's Algorithm: Improves the efficiency of searching unsorted databases, offering a quadratic speedup compared to classical algorithms. Classical search algorithms have a linear runtime of
$O(N)$ , whereas Grover's algorithm brings this down to$O(\sqrt{N})$ , where$N$ is the number of items. - Quantum Simulation: Quantum computers excel at simulating molecular and quantum systems, tasks that are extremely challenging for classical computers. This capability could lead to breakthroughs in material science and drug discovery.
- Quantum Error Correction: Due to the sensitivity of quantum systems to external disturbances, error correction is vital for reliable computations. Quantum error correction involves encoding quantum information in such a way that it is protected from errors due to decoherence and other quantum noise.
- Quantum Networking: Developing quantum networks could result in exceptionally secure communication methods, leveraging principles like quantum entanglement and no-cloning theorem for unbreakable encryption.
"Love looks not with the eyes, but with the mind, And therefore is winged Cupid painted blind."
"The course of true love never did run smooth."
At MeetQute, we're transforming the dating scene by applying quantum computing principles to matchmaking. Our approach transcends traditional algorithms, offering a deeper, more nuanced understanding of compatibility.
- What It Does: Transforms your interests and preferences into quantum states. It's like converting your personality and desires into a language that quantum computers understand.
- Benefit: This allows for a more nuanced and comprehensive analysis of compatibility, going beyond the surface level to find truly compatible matches.
- What It Does: Uses a method originally intended for physics to calculate the most compatible matches. Think of it as finding a person's 'quantum twin'.
- Benefit: Results in matches that are deeply aligned with your preferences, not just based on superficial criteria.
- What It Does: Sorts through potential matches to find the best ones, similar to solving a complex puzzle.
- Benefit: Increases the likelihood of finding a highly compatible partner by efficiently navigating through the vast possibilities.
- What It Does: Quickly searches through our large user database to find matches based on specific criteria.
- Benefit: Saves time and increases efficiency, especially as our user base grows.
MeetQute also incorporates playful quantum-themed elements to make your experience both fun and engaging:
- Entanglement-themed Questions: Learn about your matches' interests in science and physics.
- Superposition-inspired Choices: Share a fuller picture of your personality through quantum-inspired options.
- Decision-making Styles: Explore how you and your matches approach decisions, from precise calculations to probabilistic estimates.
With advanced quantum cryptography, we ensure that your conversations and data are secure, maintaining privacy and confidentiality in your communications.
Biggest Deadline: All quantum scripts must be ready for iQuHACK on February 2nd-4th. Matches will be delivered shortly afterwards.
Working backwards, that means that volunteer data should be fully collected over IAP.
This project will be my first time developing in Qiskit.
We owe more than a quantum of gratitude to Prof. Aram Harrow, whose teachings in quantum computing not only enlightened us but also sparked the inception of MeetQute. Even though we didn't always ace his tests, it turns out we learned a thing or two! We hope this project can excite others about quantum computing like you inspired us.
Started by Liam Kronman (a.k.a. qupid@mit.edu) and aided by his good friend GPT4.
Contribution guidelines for this project
MeetQute is made available under the MIT License.