Quantum concepts in optical polarization
Goldberg AZ, De La Hoz P, Bjork G, Klimov AB, Grassl M, Leuchs G, Sanchez-Soro LL (2021)
Publication Type: Journal article, Review article
Publication year: 2021
Journal
Book Volume: 13
Pages Range: 1-73
Journal Issue: 1
DOI: 10.1364/AOP.404175
Abstract
We comprehensively review the quantum theory of the polarization properties of light. In classical optics, these traits are characterized by the Stokes parameters, which can be geometrically interpreted using the Poincaré sphere. Remarkably, these Stokes parameters can also be applied to the quantum world, but then important differences emerge: now, because fluctuations in the number of photons are unavoidable, one is forced to work in the three-dimensional Poincaré space that can be regarded as a set of nested spheres. Additionally, higher-order moments of the Stokes variables might play a substantial role for quantum states, which is not the case for most classical Gaussian states. This brings about important differences between these two worlds that we review in detail. In particular, the classical degree of polarization produces unsatisfactory results in the quantum domain. We compare alternative quantum degrees and put forth that they order various states differently. Finally, intrinsically nonclassical states are explored, and their potential applications in quantum technologies are discussed.
Authors with CRIS profile
Involved external institutions
Max-Planck-Institut für die Physik des Lichts (MPL) / Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light
Germany (DE)
University of Toronto
Canada (CA)
University of St Andrews
United Kingdom (GB)
Royal Institute of Technology / Kungliga Tekniska Högskolan (KTH)
Sweden (SE)
Universidad de Guadalajara (UDEG)
Mexico (MX)
Germany (DE)
University of Toronto
Canada (CA)
University of St Andrews
United Kingdom (GB)
Royal Institute of Technology / Kungliga Tekniska Högskolan (KTH)
Sweden (SE)
Universidad de Guadalajara (UDEG)
Mexico (MX)
How to cite
APA:
Goldberg, A.Z., De La Hoz, P., Bjork, G., Klimov, A.B., Grassl, M., Leuchs, G., & Sanchez-Soro, L.L. (2021). Quantum concepts in optical polarization. Advances in Optics and Photonics, 13(1), 1-73. https://doi.org/10.1364/AOP.404175
MLA:
Goldberg, Aaron Z., et al. "Quantum concepts in optical polarization." Advances in Optics and Photonics 13.1 (2021): 1-73.
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