Beyond Density Matrices: Geometric Quantum States
Quantum Physics
2021-06-30 v1 Statistical Mechanics
Dynamical Systems
Abstract
A quantum system's state is identified with a density matrix. Though their probabilistic interpretation is rooted in ensemble theory, density matrices embody a known shortcoming. They do not completely express an ensemble's physical realization. Conveniently, when working only with the statistical outcomes of projective and positive operator-valued measurements this is not a hindrance. To track ensemble realizations and so remove the shortcoming, we explore geometric quantum states and explain their physical significance. We emphasize two main consequences: one in quantum state manipulation and one in quantum thermodynamics.
Cite
@article{arxiv.2008.08682,
title = {Beyond Density Matrices: Geometric Quantum States},
author = {Fabio Anza and James P. Crutchfield},
journal= {arXiv preprint arXiv:2008.08682},
year = {2021}
}
Comments
7 pages, 1 figure; Supplementary Material: 2 pages; http://csc.ucdavis.edu/~cmg/compmech/pubs/rgqs.htm