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arXiv · 1404.3912

Ideal negative measurements in quantum walks disprove theories based on classical trajectories

Carsten Robens·Wolfgang Alt·Dieter Meschede·Clive Emary·Andrea Alberti
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Abstract

We report on a stringent test of the non-classicality of the motion of a massive quantum particle, which propagates on a discrete lattice. Measuring temporal correlations of the position of single atoms performing a quantum walk, we observe a $6σ$ violation of the Leggett-Garg inequality. Our results rigorously excludes (i.e. falsifies) any explanation of quantum transport based on classical, well-defined trajectories. We use so-called ideal negative measurements -- an essential requisite for any genuine Leggett-Garg test -- to acquire information about the atom's position, yet avoiding any direct interaction with it. The interaction-free measurement is based on a novel atom transport system, which allows us to directly probe the absence rather than the presence of atoms at a chosen lattice site. Beyond the fundamental aspect of this test, we demonstrate the application of the Leggett-Garg correlation function as a witness of quantum superposition. We here employ the witness to discriminate different types of walks spanning from merely classical to wholly quantum dynamics.

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Carsten Robens, Wolfgang Alt, Dieter Meschede, Clive Emary, Andrea Alberti. 2015-02-10. Ideal negative measurements in quantum walks disprove theories based on classical trajectories. https://doi.org/10.1103/physrevx.5.011003

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