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arXiv:2107.02151

Continuous Variable Quantum Algorithms: an Introduction

S. Buck, Robin J. Coleman, Hayk Sargsyan

Published Jul 5, 2021• 5 citations
arXivHTMLPDF

Abstract

Quantum computing is usually associated with discrete quantum states and physical quantities possessing discrete eigenvalue spectrum. However, quantum computing in general is any computation accomplished by the exploitation of quantum properties of physical quantities, discrete or otherwise. It has been shown that physical quantities with continuous eigenvalue spectrum can be used for quantum computing as well. Currently, continuous variable quantum computing is a rapidly developing field both theoretically and experimentally. In this pedagogical introduction we present the basic theoretical concepts behind it and the tools for algorithm development. The paper targets readers with discrete quantum computing background, who are new to continuous variable quantum computing.

DOI
10.48550/arxiv.2107.02151

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Observables with a continuous spectrum are known to fundamentally differ from those with a discrete and finite spectrum. While some fundamental tests and applications of quantum mechanics originally formulated for discrete variables have been translated to continuous ones, this is not the case in general. Here we show that it is possible to manipulate, detect, and classify continuous-variable states using observables with a continuous spectrum revealing properties and symmetries which are analogous to finite discrete systems. Our approach leads to an operational way to define, and adapt, to arbitrary continuous quantum systems, quantum protocols, and algorithms developed for discrete systems.
Abstract Observables of quantum systems can possess either a discrete or a continuous spectrum. For example, upon measurements of the photon number of a light state, discrete outcomes will result whereas measurements of the light's quadrature amplitudes result in continuous outcomes. If one uses the continuous degree of freedom of a quantum system for encoding, processing or detecting information, one enters the field of continuous‐variable (CV) quantum information processing. In this paper we review the basic principles of CV quantum information processing with main focus on recent developments in the field. We will be addressing the three main stages of a quantum information system; the preparation stage where quantum information is encoded into CVs of coherent states and single‐photon states, the processing stage where CV information is manipulated to carry out a specified protocol and a detection stage where CV information is measured using homodyne detection or photon counting.
A quantum computer is a machine that exploits quantum phenomena to store information and perform computations.\nThe chief goal of this article is to provide a brief but comprehensive introduction to quantum computing. It overviews some mathematical underpinnings of quantum computation for readers with only a basic knowledge of linear algebra and probability. However, it does not attempt to be exhaustive nor make an exposition of quantum physics. It further does not attempt to stay current with physical implementations of quantum computers.\nAfter providing a brief historical background, the article introduces the notion of a quantum bit (qubit) and the linear operators (gates) that act on these. It then addresses systems of multiple qubits and their corresponding gates. Along the way, the article covers the essential concepts of separable systems, as well quantum interference and decoherence. It also describes how to represent gates as quantum circuits. To conclude, it explains the underpinnings of two simple but insightful quantum algorithms. A final section suggests further readings for those who wish to delve deeper into quantum computing.
Quantum information is an emerging field which has attracted a lot of attention in the last couple of decades. It is a broad subject which extends from the most applied questions (e.g. how to build quantum computers or secure cryptographic systems) to the most theoretical problems concerning the formalism and interpretation of quantum mechanics, its complexity, and its potential to go beyond classical physics. This book is an introduction to quantum information with special emphasis on continuous-variable systems (such as light) which can be described as collections of harmonic oscillators. It covers a selection of basic concepts, focusing on their physical meaning and mathematical treatment. It starts from the very first principles of quantum mechanics, and builds up the concepts and techniques following a logical progression. This is an excellent reference for students with a full semester of standard quantum mechanics and researchers in closely related fields.