ELI5: quantum chips fabrication

What are quantum chips?

Quantum chips are special computer processors that use the weird rules of quantum mechanics instead of regular electricity to process information [2]. They're made from silicon wafers similar to regular computer chips, but they work in a completely different way [1].

Why do we need to make them specially?

Quantum chips need to be made with extreme care because they use tiny particles called qubits that are incredibly fragile and sensitive [2]. Regular semiconductor factories, like those used to make your phone's processor, can be adapted to build these quantum chips [1][4].

What's different about making them?

Instead of just turning electricity on and off, quantum chips have to maintain special conditions where the qubits can stay "quantum" — kind of like keeping a soap bubble from popping [2][3]. Some quantum chips need to be kept super cold using liquid helium to work properly [3].

How are they built?

Companies like IBM use their regular chip fabrication factories to build quantum processors, meaning they take the same production methods they use for normal chips and adapt them for quantum technology [1][4].