ZX calculus is very interesting framework for doing cutting edge research in error correction and gate compilation, but it seems wildly off base as a means of making quantum computing accessible to a broader audience. Anything beyond the simple "teleportation is like pulling a string" picture is extremely difficult abstract manipulations.
Sadly, the only way to truly “understand” quantum physics is through math. A “shut up and calculate” approach.
Now, my rant.
The main reason math often seems more complicated than it really is has to do with the use of strange symbols and naming conventions. It also feels like academia in the US intentionally uses non-plain language and terminology to sound smarter and exclusive.
Back in socialist countries, there was a strong effort to name these concepts using “normal” language, and that really helped. When I came to US, I’d see something like Fourier transformation and think, “Why do use this strange name?” Why not call it “conversion of a signal into frequencies” (lose translation).
Of course, maybe the reason is that it is easier to create a new word/term in Slavic languages.
> The term, “Quantum Picturalism” was coined to describe this unique approach of teaching quantum concepts visually, reducing intimidation and opening the field to broader audiences.
Quantum Picturalism
(quantuminpictures.org)48 points by mathgenius 20 May 2025 | 17 comments
Comments
(PhD in experimental QC)
Search landed on this neat summary [^1] (2024) from the lab(?) which also has a link to the original paper [^2]
[1]: https://www.quantinuum.com/blog/quantinuum-scientists-have-p...
[2]: https://arxiv.org/abs/2405.10896
Now, my rant.
The main reason math often seems more complicated than it really is has to do with the use of strange symbols and naming conventions. It also feels like academia in the US intentionally uses non-plain language and terminology to sound smarter and exclusive.
Back in socialist countries, there was a strong effort to name these concepts using “normal” language, and that really helped. When I came to US, I’d see something like Fourier transformation and think, “Why do use this strange name?” Why not call it “conversion of a signal into frequencies” (lose translation).
Of course, maybe the reason is that it is easier to create a new word/term in Slavic languages.