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Optical experiment to test negative probability in context of quantum-measurement selection
Junghee Ryu1, Sunghyuk Hong2, Joong-Sung Lee2
1Centre for Quantum Technologies, National University of Singapore, 3 Science Drive 2, 117543, Singapore, Singapore. rjhui82@gmail.com.
Scientific Reports
|December 15, 2019
Summary
This study introduces an operational method to interpret negative quasiprobability values, revealing quantum system nonclassicality. The approach uses sequential photon polarization measurements to demonstrate this new technique for understanding quantum phenomena.
Area of Science:
- Quantum Physics
- Quantum Information Science
Background:
- Negative probability values in quasiprobability distributions indicate quantum system nonclassicality.
- Current methods lack operational interpretation of these negative values concerning probability definitions.
- An alternative approach is needed to operationally link quasiprobability negativity to measurable quantities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To experimentally realize an operational quasiprobability that directly reveals the negativity of measured quantities.
- To provide an operational interpretation for negative quasiprobability values.
- To demonstrate a new method for assessing the nonclassical nature of quantum systems, specifically photons.
Main Methods:
- Implementation of sequential polarization measurements on single photons.
- Utilizing a time-resolved measurement scheme.
- Analysis of the measured negativity in the context of measurement selection.
Main Results:
- Successful experimental realization of operational quasiprobability.
- Demonstrated that measured negativity can be interpreted through measurement selection.
- Confirmed that the observed negativity reflects the nonclassical nature of photons.
Conclusions:
- The developed operational quasiprobability offers a new perspective on quantum nonclassicality.
- Sequential measurements provide an effective means to operationally reveal quantum negativity.
- This approach offers a novel pathway to unravel the nonclassicality of photons via measurement selection.
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