Quantum Optical Tests of the Foundations of Physics

Lynden K. Shalm, Aephraim M. Steinberg, Paul G. Kwiat +1 more

R. Y. Chiao, Paul G. Kwiat, Aephraim M. Steinberg

David DHUGUES

I propose an experiment to test whether a nominally empty optical mode can influence the detection statistics of a single photon when subjected to independent, controlled transformations. This protocol provides a direct and falsifiable experimental constraint on the potential physical influence of empty modes, an open question in the foundations of quantum mechanics. Contact : daviddhugues@yahoo.fr

Xian Ma

Quantum information is promising in solving certain computational problems and information \nsecurity. The power of its speed up and privacy is based on one of the most \ntested physical theory: quantum mechanics. Many of the promises of quantum information \nhas already been demonstrated in different implementations, which could also be viewed \nas witness of quantum mechanics. As we progress further in quantum information, we find \nthat some of the aspects of quantum mechanics could be tested in a novel way. Performing \nthose tests may lead to new physical theory or at least reinforce our belief of the accuracy \nof quantum mechanics. In this thesis, I report a few different approaches in testing the \nfoundation of quantum mechanics using results obtained from quantum optics. While developing \nsuch test, quantum state tomography is heavily used to characterize our system. \nI also report a simplified way of performing quantum state tomography for quantum state \nthat is close to pure state.

Vladimir B. Braginsky

Simanraj Sadana, Lorenzo Maccone, Urbasi Sinha

We present two complementary viewpoints for combining quantum computers and the foundations of quantum mechanics. On one hand, ideal devices can be used as testbeds for experimental tests of the foundations of quantum mechanics: we provide algorithms for the Peres test of the superposition principle and the Sorkin test of Born's rule. On the other hand, noisy intermediate-scale quantum (NISQ) devices can be benchmarked using these same tests. These are deep-quantum benchmarks based on the foundations of quantum theory itself. We present test data from Rigetti hardware.