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Provides a unified perspective connecting equilibrium statistical mechanics with stochastic neural networks and quantum computing.
A unique course that connects three diverse fields using the unifying concept of a state-space with 2^N dimensions defined by N binary bits. We start from the seminal concepts of statistical mechanics like entropy, free energy and the law of equilibrium that have been developed with the purpose of describing interacting systems occurring in nature. We then move to the concept of Boltzmann machines (BM) which are interacting systems cleverly engineered to solve important problems in machine learning. Finally, we move to engineered quantum systems stressing the phenomenon of quantum interference which can lead to awesome computing power.
This course is designed for students in engineering or the physical sciences and have knowledge of differential equations and linear algebra.
Week 1: Boltzmann Law
1.1 State Space
1.2 Boltzmann Law
1.3 Shannon Entropy
1.4 Free Energy
1.5 Self-consistent Field
1.6 Summary for Exam 1
Week 2: Boltzmann Machines
2.1. Sampling
2.2. Orchestrating Interactions
2.3. Optimization
2.4. Inference
2.5. Learning
Week 3: Transition Matrix
3.1. Markov Chain Monte Carlo
3.2. Gibbs Sampling
3.3. Sequential versus Simultaneous
3.4. Bayesian Networks
3.5. Feynman Paths
3.6 Summary for Exam 2
Week 4: Quantum Boltzmann Law
4.1. Quantum Spins
4.2. One q-bit Systems
4.3. Spin-spin Interactions
4.4. Two q-bit Systems
4.5. Quantum Annealing
Week 5: Quantum Transition Matrix
5.1. Adiabatic to Gated Computing
5.2. Hadamard Gates
5.3. Grover Search
5.4. Shor's Algorithm
5.5. Feynman Paths
5.6 Summary for Exam 3
Epilogue
"The way that this professor explains the material very well. All of this was very new to me but he explained it in a way that made the course interesting and engaging. I also enjoy the quizzes after every lecture video. It’s very helpful in ensuring that I learn the material properly. " - Student, Fall 2020 semester
Who can take this course?
Unfortunately, learners residing in one or more of the following countries or regions will not be able to register for this course: Iran, Cuba and the Crimea region of Ukraine. While edX has sought licenses from the U.S. Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) to offer our courses to learners in these countries and regions, the licenses we have received are not broad enough to allow us to offer this course in all locations. edX truly regrets that U.S. sanctions prevent us from offering all of our courses to everyone, no matter where they live.
Who can take this course?
Unfortunately, learners residing in one or more of the following countries or regions will not be able to register for this course: Iran, Cuba and the Crimea region of Ukraine. While edX has sought licenses from the U.S. Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) to offer our courses to learners in these countries and regions, the licenses we have received are not broad enough to allow us to offer this course in all locations. edX truly regrets that U.S. sanctions prevent us from offering all of our courses to everyone, no matter where they live.
