Problems
593
already solved ones, so that memory of those helps. Other problems require a leap
of imagination, i.e. the ability to use wide searches for patterns which might lead
to a solution, and then to be able to calculate the consequences of each possible
pattern. Evidently, computational strength, memory, and good search algorithms are
key elements to intelligence in a given area. Crows, dolphins, and often humans
show high intelligence.
‘Artificial intelligence’ is a constructive logic network which has the characteristics of intelligence (either restricted or general). Computers have already surpassed
humans in solving chess problems, and in playing the game of “Jeopardy” that
involves the subtle interpretation of language and culture.
14.7 Quantum Computers
Although biological brains operate largely through mechanisms which can be
associated with classical algorithms, it is possible to design a computer which takes
advantage of coherent quantum entangled states to handle internal configurations
which represent many possibilities before one is realized. Acting on such quantum
states rather than their realizations can exponentially speed the solution to wellposed problems in comparison to known classical calculations. In practice, keeping
many entities in quantum coherence is difficult due to the action of the environment
on the system. No examples of a brain using quantum coherence has been found in
nature except for the ones that humans have constructed. 18
Problems
14.1 Give arguments for the proposition that electrons in delocalized orbits is
important in the neuronal activity of our brains.
14.2 Support the proposition that quantum uncertainty is important in our so-called
free will.
14.3 Explain in your own words what must be done to generalize the Goldman–
Hodgkin–Katz voltage equation to include the calcium ion concentrations and
permeability.
14.4 Suppose the concentration of sodium ions inside a neuron in your body
(at 37 ◦ C) is found to be 12 millimolar, while just outside the neuron it is 145
18 For a further discussion of the principles behind quantum computers, see William C. Parke,
The Essence of Quantum Theory for Computers, Logic and Algebraic Structures in Quantum
Computing, eds. J. Chubb, A. Eskandarian, & V. Harizanov, [Cambridge Univ. Press] (2016).
593
already solved ones, so that memory of those helps. Other problems require a leap
of imagination, i.e. the ability to use wide searches for patterns which might lead
to a solution, and then to be able to calculate the consequences of each possible
pattern. Evidently, computational strength, memory, and good search algorithms are
key elements to intelligence in a given area. Crows, dolphins, and often humans
show high intelligence.
‘Artificial intelligence’ is a constructive logic network which has the characteristics of intelligence (either restricted or general). Computers have already surpassed
humans in solving chess problems, and in playing the game of “Jeopardy” that
involves the subtle interpretation of language and culture.
14.7 Quantum Computers
Although biological brains operate largely through mechanisms which can be
associated with classical algorithms, it is possible to design a computer which takes
advantage of coherent quantum entangled states to handle internal configurations
which represent many possibilities before one is realized. Acting on such quantum
states rather than their realizations can exponentially speed the solution to wellposed problems in comparison to known classical calculations. In practice, keeping
many entities in quantum coherence is difficult due to the action of the environment
on the system. No examples of a brain using quantum coherence has been found in
nature except for the ones that humans have constructed. 18
Problems
14.1 Give arguments for the proposition that electrons in delocalized orbits is
important in the neuronal activity of our brains.
14.2 Support the proposition that quantum uncertainty is important in our so-called
free will.
14.3 Explain in your own words what must be done to generalize the Goldman–
Hodgkin–Katz voltage equation to include the calcium ion concentrations and
permeability.
14.4 Suppose the concentration of sodium ions inside a neuron in your body
(at 37 ◦ C) is found to be 12 millimolar, while just outside the neuron it is 145
18 For a further discussion of the principles behind quantum computers, see William C. Parke,
The Essence of Quantum Theory for Computers, Logic and Algebraic Structures in Quantum
Computing, eds. J. Chubb, A. Eskandarian, & V. Harizanov, [Cambridge Univ. Press] (2016).