Pure and mixed states
Mathematical Physics
2020-12-02 v6 math.MP
Quantum Physics
Abstract
We present a review on the notion of pure states and mixtures as mathematical concepts that apply for both classical and quantum physical theories, as well as for any other theory depending on statistical description. Here, states will be presented as expectation values on suitable algebras of observables, in a manner intended for the non-specialist reader; accordingly, basic literature on the subject will be provided. Examples will be exposed together with a discussion on their meanings and implications. An example will be shown where a pure quantum state converges to a classical mixture of particles as Planck's constant tends to zero.
Cite
@article{arxiv.1909.06232,
title = {Pure and mixed states},
author = {J. C. A. Barata and M. Brum and V. Chabu and R. Correa da Silva},
journal= {arXiv preprint arXiv:1909.06232},
year = {2020}
}
Comments
33 pages, 3 figures