Knotty Calculations

A quantum version of braids could lay the groundwork for tomorrow's computers

When you learned to tie knots as a child, you probably thought their main use was for making bows on birthday presents or keeping your shoes on your feet. However, if a small band of mathematicians and physicists has its way, knots will form the basis for an entirely new kind of computer, one whose power vastly outstrips that of the machines at our disposal today.