a science essay i was reading mentioned quantum calculations as a field that will change the way science is done, once it is made possible. what the heck is that?
I think you are referring to quantum computers. In theory a quantum computer could do computations much faster than a normal computer, because it’s thought they can store all the results of a calculation simultaneously as a probability waveform. some more information here..
Note that several people, including me, think it’s a “pie in the sky” promise. Basic studies into how much energy is needed to maintain quantum wave state separations for any interesting calculation reveal serious reservations about the whole idea.
Most Theoretical Computer Scientists don’t know Physics. (But I do.)
I’ve known personally several of the top researchers on this topic. And, well, there is a “herd mentality” that follows hot funding opportunities for grants. These “research bubbles” don’t last long.
OTOH, there is some cool stuff that has been developed as a result of this research that could lead to ordinary probabilistic algorithms that could be very interesting.
So I actually support funding research for somewhat goofy ideas, as sometimes something else really nice comes up.