TED-ED: What in the world is topological quantum matter?

The video explores the potential of faster computing through the lens of topology, a branch of mathematics that studies properties of objects that remain unchanged under certain transformations. The 2016 Nobel Prize in Physics was awarded to scientists who discovered topological properties at the quantum level, which could revolutionize materials science, electronic engineering, and quantum computing. Topological insulators, for example, conduct electricity only at their edges, offering perfect electron transport. These properties could lead to more stable and efficient quantum computers, as topological qubits are less susceptible to environmental disturbances.

Discuss the relationship between topology and the behavior of electrons in a magnetic field.

What challenges do quantum computers face, and how might topological qubits address these challenges?