[bawolff]

> Isn't it possible that we have gaps between our models of QC and how it works in reality that could make it such that these algorithms can't actually offer any speedup over classical approaches in the real world?

If BQP=BPP or if BQP did not accurately model a quantum computer, i think that would be a much more interesting result than an actual working quantum computer. It would be world shattering.

[vlovich123]

Or BQP is a purely theoretical construct with no real-world counterpart. No world shattering result necessarily.

There’s plenty of math that exists purely in the virtual real with no connection to physical reality. Math is a language to describe any possible universe. That doesn’t mean anything we say in it necessarily applies to our universe.

[bawolff]

> Or BQP is a purely theoretical construct with no real-world counterpart.

I would consider that world shattering. It would suggest significant flaws in our understanding of the universe which would be very exciting.

Honestly i can't think of a more earth shattering discovery. It would be on par with aliens landing and saying we come in peace.

> There’s plenty of math that exists purely in the virtual real with no connection to physical reality.

Obviously.

The earth shattering part is if quantum physics goes from an accurate description of most of the universe to one that isn't.

What you are basically saying is any theory could be wrong. Well duh, but that describes literally all earth shattering scientific discoveries.