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Published on: December 4, 2017
Assessing non-Markovian quantum dynamics.
M M Wolf1, J Eisert, T S Cubitt
1Max-Planck-Institute for Quantum Optics, 85748 Garching, Germany.
Physical Review Letters
|November 13, 2008
Summary
Researchers can determine if quantum evolution is Markovian from a single snapshot. Computable criteria and a measure of "Markovianity" are introduced for quantum channels and process tomography.
Area of Science:
- Quantum Information Theory
- Open Quantum Systems
- Quantum Dynamics
Background:
- Quantum channels describe the evolution of quantum states in open systems.
- Understanding the nature of this evolution (e.g., Markovian vs. non-Markovian) is crucial for quantum technologies.
- Current methods often require extensive data or specific assumptions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if a quantum channel snapshot reveals information about the underlying continuous time evolution.
- To establish criteria for identifying Markovian quantum evolution from a single snapshot.
- To introduce a computable measure of Markovianity.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of quantum channels as snapshots of quantum evolution.
- Development of necessary and sufficient criteria for time-dependent and time-independent Markovian evolution.
- Introduction of a computable measure for quantifying Markovianity.
- Application of criteria to quantum process tomography.
Main Results:
- A quantum channel snapshot, without further assumptions, can determine consistency with Markovian evolution.
- Computable criteria are provided for identifying Markovian dynamics.
- A computable measure of "Markovianity" is introduced.
- The geometry of quantum channels in relation to master equations is clarified.
Conclusions:
- The nature of quantum evolution, specifically its Markovianity, can be inferred from a single quantum channel snapshot.
- The developed criteria and measure offer practical tools for analyzing quantum dynamics.
- This work provides a deeper understanding of the relationship between quantum channels and master equations.
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