📘 Q.5 IAS Prelims 2025 — Science & Technology (Quantum Computing & AI)🧷 Authentic Classroom Explanation by IAS Monk


📌 The Question:

Consider the following statements:

I. It is expected that Majorana-1 chip will enable quantum computing.
II. Majorana-1 chip has been introduced by Amazon Web Services (AWS).
III. Deep learning is a subset of machine learning.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) I and II only
(b) II and III only
(c) I and III only
(d) I, II and III


Correct Answer: (c) I and III only


🧠 Classroom Explanation (Exam-oriented):

Let us test each statement carefully, one by one 👇


🔹 Statement I

✔ Correct

The Majorana-1 chip refers to a Majorana-based quantum computing approach, which uses Majorana fermions (exotic quasiparticles) for topological quantum computing.

Why it matters:
• Majorana-based qubits are more stable
• They are less prone to decoherence and errors
• Hence, they are considered a promising pathway for scalable quantum computing

👉 Therefore, Statement I is correct.


🔹 Statement II

✘ Incorrect

Amazon Web Services (AWS) works on quantum computing through Amazon Braket
• However, the Majorana-based chip initiative is led by Microsoft, not AWS
• Microsoft’s work is closely associated with Station Q and topological qubits

👉 Therefore, Statement II is incorrect.


🔹 Statement III

✔ Correct

Machine Learning (ML) → broad field of algorithms that learn from data
Deep Learning (DL) → a subset of ML
• Uses multi-layered neural networks (deep neural networks)

Applications include:
• Image recognition
• Natural language processing
• Speech recognition
• Autonomous systems

👉 Therefore, Statement III is correct.


📌 Final Logic:
✔ Statement I — Correct
✘ Statement II — Incorrect
✔ Statement III — Correct

Answer: (c) I and III only


🔍 Curiosity Raiser:
🧲 Why are Majorana particles called “exotic”?
Because a Majorana fermion is its own antiparticle — a rare property that makes it extremely valuable for fault-tolerant quantum computing.


📚 Enrich Notes (UPSC Value-Add):

Quantum Computing Approaches:

  • Superconducting qubits (Google, IBM)
  • Trapped ions (IonQ)
  • Topological qubits (Microsoft – Majorana)

AI Hierarchy (Favourite UPSC Trap):

  • Artificial Intelligence
    ↳ Machine Learning
    Deep Learning

Keyword to remember:
Majorana → Topological → Stability → Error-resistant qubits


🪶 IAS Monk Whisper:
When UPSC mixes Quantum Computing and AI in one question, verify the developer name and hierarchy relationships very carefully.

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