You've probably encountered quantum mechanics in popular mainstream media dozens of times. TV Shows like Futurama and Rick and Morty reference it often, and I believe most are familiar with Schrödinger's cat that's apparently both dead and alive at the same time.

Buzzwords and click-bait articles regarding quantum mechanics and quantum computing can be found easily online. Wild promises of all modern encryption being cracked in mere seconds and faster-than-light communication using quantum entanglement! More serious articles regarding the subject often appear to require an advanced mathematics degree from the reader. (Which, don´t worry, I do not possess either.)

Inspired by a talk I saw this year; I decided to dive into the world of Microsoft's Quantum Development Kit and the accompanied programming language Q#. Together we will uncover some of the wacky concepts of quantum mechanics and quantum computing. What is a qubit? What are the implications of quantum entanglement? What are the practical uses of quantum computing today?
And what's the deal with Schrödinger and his cat anyway?