This allows quantum computers to handle exponentially more data than classical computers. For example, while 20 transistors are 20 times more powerful than one, 20 qubits are a million times more powerful than one. The potential of quantum computing has sparked a race between major players like IBM, Google, Microsoft, and Honeywell to develop a workable and operationally efficient quantum computer.

But there are challenges to overcome. One major challenge is achieving and maintaining coherence of the qubits. Coherence is the ability of the qubits to vibrate in unison and is essential for error-free calculations. Currently, coherence breaks down frequently, leading to errors. The goal is to reduce errors to one in every million or so steps. Another challenge is scaling up the quantum computer to larger machines while mitigating errors and extending coherence time.

Despite these challenges, researchers like Hartmut Neven, the founder of Google's quantum lab, are optimistic that with incremental improvements, a reliable and general-purpose quantum computer can be achieved by the end of the decade. This optimism is shared by Dario Gil, who believes that classical computers will never be able to solve certain complex problems, and quantum computing provides a different way to represent and process information.

The potential applications of quantum computing are vast. For example, in the field of healthcare, quantum computers could revolutionize the modeling of proteins, which play a critical role in regulating life. Understanding the shape and behavior of proteins in real time could lead to breakthroughs in treating diseases like cancer and autoimmunity.

Governments are also recognizing the significance of quantum computing. China has made it a top national priority, and the U.S. government is investing nearly a billion dollars a year in research. In fact, the U.S. plans to publish new encryption standards next year in anticipation of the day when quantum computers can break current encryption codes.

IBM is at the forefront of quantum computing, and tomorrow they will unveil their Quantum System Two, which will have three times the qubits as their previous machine. System Two has the potential to expand to thousands of qubits and even up to 100,000 qubits. IBM is confident that they will continue to make advancements in quantum computing and overcome the obstacles in the way.

The implications of quantum computing go beyond just faster and more powerful computers. Physicist Michio Kaku believes that quantum computing could provide a deeper understanding of the universe itself. The language of the universe is the language of the quantum, and by learning this language, we may gain insights into the very nature of creation.

In conclusion, the field of quantum computing is on the brink of a major breakthrough that could transform civilization. With the potential to solve previously unsolvable problems and revolutionize industries like healthcare, the race to develop a reliable and operationally efficient quantum computer is in full swing. While challenges remain, researchers and companies like IBM, Google, and Microsoft are confident that they will overcome these obstacles and bring quantum computing to fruition in the near future.