The quantum search algorithm can be looked at as a technique for synthesizi
ng a particular kind of superposition-one whose amplitude is concentrated i
n a single basis state. This basis state is defined by a binary function f(
(x) over bar) that is nonzero in this desired basis state and zero everywhe
re else. This paper extends the quantum search algorithm to an algorithm th
at can create an arbitrarily specified superposition on a space of size N i
n O(root N) steps. The superposition is specified by a complex valued funct
ion f((x) over bar) that specifies the desired amplitude of the system in b
asis state (x) over bar.