The quantum search algorithm is a technique for searching N possibilities i
n only O(rootN) steps. Although the algorithm itself is widely known, not s
o well known is the series of steps that first led to it; these are quite d
ifferent from any of the generally known forms of the algorithm, This paper
describes these steps, which start by discretizing Schrodinger's equation.
This paper also provides a self-contained introduction to quantum computin
g algorithms from a new perspective. O zool American Association of Physics
Teachers.