A theoretical study of open quantum systems

Eliade N. Stefanescu

A Quantum system can be viewed as a larger closed system comprising of two components: an open quantum system and its surrounding environment. These two components interact with each other, and in the realm of theoretical physics, this interaction cannot be neglected. This eBook A Quantum system can be viewed as a larger closed system comprising of two components: an open quantum system and its surrounding environment. These two components interact with each other, and in the realm of theoretical physics, this interaction cannot be neglected. This eBook explains mathematical and statistical co

Thibaut Lacroix

HERSCHEL A. RABITZ, Constantin Brif, Re-Bing Wu

The ability to optimally control quantum systems in the presence of environmentally-induced decoherence is important for many physical and chemical problems.We discuss both theoretical and experimental aspects of optimal control of open quantum systems. The theoretical analysis is based on fundamental concepts of open-system controllability and control landscapes. These theoretical advances lay the groundwork for practical applications, including numerical simulations and experimental implementations of adaptive feedback control. In particular, the adaptive approach was utilized to implement coherent control of decoherence, which uses coherent (unitary) preparation and manipulation of an open quantum system to significantly alter its incoherent (non-unitary) dynamics caused by coupling to an environment. We also discuss other applications, including optimal dynamic discrimination of similar quantum systems and optimal control of high-fidelity quantum gates in the presence of decoherence.

Bassano Vacchini, Andrea Smirne, Nina Megier

This issue contains contributions in different cutting edge topics within the field of open quantum systems. The theoretical work presented is focused, in particular, on quantum thermodynamics and quantum non-Markovianity and provides a window into current research in these fields. Different perspectives are considered that share a common root in the exploitation of open quantum systems and quantum information tools.