Ternary computing is a type of computing that uses three states instead of the traditional two states found in binary computing. In binary systems, data is represented using bits that can be either 0 or 1. Ternary systems, on the other hand, utilize trits, which can represent values of -1, 0, and +1, allowing for more efficient data representation and processing. This approach can potentially lead to more compact and faster computations, as it reduces the number of digits needed to represent numbers. Researchers are exploring ternary logic for applications in quantum computing and artificial intelligence, where complex calculations can benefit from this expanded state system.