Contextual particle propagation in a three-path interferometer

2023/12/21 by Holger F. Hofmann, Hofmann, Holger F.
Computer Science · Physics and Astronomy · #FOS: Physical sciences #Mechanical and Optical Resonators #Quantum Information and Cryptography #Quantum Mechanics and Applications #Quantum Physics (quant-ph)

paper · pdf · doi:10.48550/arxiv.2312.13670

openalex publication_date 2023/12/21 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/28

Abstract

Quantum information is based on the apparent contradictions between classical logic and quantum coherence described by Kochen-Specker contextuality. Surprisingly, this contradiction can be demonstrated in a comparatively simple three-path interferometer, where it is impossible to trace the path of a single photon through five consecutive stages of the interferometer. Here, I discuss the paradoxical aspects of single photon interferences revealed by the three-path interferometer and point out the essential role of dynamics in quantum information.

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