Quantum measurements: experimental approach of POVM measurements in polarization with an intense laser beam

The measurement process in quantum mechanics is an extensively discussed subject that has produced deep debates throughout history. It’s a key subject in quantum information theory. In this work, our main goal is to discuss the experimental realization of positive operator-valued measure (POVM) measurements in the light’s polarization degree of freedom based on a circuit presented by Ahnert e Payne [¹] using an intense light beam. By doing so, we propose a simulation of the results of POVM measurements in polarization in the classical regime. We present details that allow the experimental approach of optical circuits with an intense laser beam using elements found in a good optics laboratory. Also, we make a quick review of quantum measurements, where we introduce projective and POVM measurements. We apply the POVM measurements concept in a simple didactic example that explores the Stern-Gerlach apparatus, indicating a good starting point for introducing the discussion on POVM measurements in Quantum Mechanics’ basic courses.

Keywords:
Quantum Mechanics; Quantum Measurements; POVM measurements; Polarization