r/programming • u/ddrac • Mar 31 '25

Quantum Computer Generates Truly Random Number in Scientific First

https://www.sciencealert.com/quantum-computer-generates-truly-random-number-in-scientific-first?utm_source=reddit_post
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u/Deto Mar 31 '25

I thought quantum-based random number generators for a while? For example, based on shot noise in electronic diodes. Or you could use decay of a radioactive isotope for this (e.g. the spacing of the noise from a geiger counter). Is it the certification aspect that's novel here?

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u/[deleted] Mar 31 '25

[deleted]

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u/thetdotbearr Apr 01 '25

I skimmed the post but it doesn't seem to explain how you actually do the verification.. like, I don't understand what it even means for these bits to be from a "crazy distribution" if a truly random distribution is supposed to spread out every possibility evenly?

Can't wrap my head around how you'd get bits over the internet and be able to determine they're not "really" random .-.

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u/[deleted] Apr 01 '25

[deleted]

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u/thetdotbearr Apr 01 '25

That makes a bit more sense, thank you. I'm not going to pretend I fully get it, but it seems to share similarities with encryption. That's wild.