ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Magic state distillation

Magic state distillation is like making a special magic potion using regular ingredients.

In quantum computing, certain states called magic states are very useful for performing complex calculations. But these magic states are difficult to create, so scientists came up with a way to make them from simpler states through a process called distillation.

Think of it like making lemonade. You start with simple ingredients like water and lemon juice, but you want to make it taste sweeter. So, you add sugar and stir it all together. Similarly, in the process of magic state distillation, quantum scientists start with simple quantum states and add some special ingredients, then mix them together to create a more powerful state.

The process of magic state distillation involves taking multiple copies of a less powerful quantum state called a resource state and combining them in a certain way to create a single more powerful magic state. It's like combining multiple drops of water to create a larger, more satisfying drink.

Once the more powerful magic state is created, it can be used to perform quantum computations more efficiently.

Overall, magic state distillation is a way to make really useful states for quantum computing by starting with simpler states and combining them in a specific way.