Does weak measurement cause mixed state?

In summary, weak measurement is a type of quantum measurement that involves making a small, non-invasive interaction with a quantum system in order to obtain information about its state. It differs from strong measurement in that it has a minimal effect on the system and allows for the measurement of properties that would be disturbed by strong measurement. Weak measurement can cause a mixed state, where the system is in a probabilistic combination of different states. A mixed state is a quantum state that is a probabilistic combination of multiple pure states. Weak measurement can improve the accuracy of quantum measurements in certain cases, but in others, strong measurement may be necessary for more accurate results.
  • #1
entropy1
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Does a 'weak measurement' on the spin of an electron in a pure state put the electron in a mixed state of the previous state and the state of the measurement axis of the measurement?
 
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  • #2
entropy1 said:
Does a 'weak measurement' on the spin of an electron in a pure state put the electron in a mixed state of the previous state and the state of the measurement axis of the measurement?

I think it is in a superposition of those states, not a mix. After a suitable weak measurement, that is.
 

Related to Does weak measurement cause mixed state?

1. What is weak measurement?

Weak measurement is a type of quantum measurement that involves making a small, non-invasive interaction with a quantum system in order to obtain information about its state.

2. How does weak measurement differ from strong measurement?

Strong measurement involves making a strong, invasive interaction with a quantum system, which can significantly alter its state. Weak measurement, on the other hand, has a minimal effect on the system and allows for the measurement of properties that would be disturbed by strong measurement.

3. Can weak measurement cause a mixed state?

Yes, weak measurement can cause a mixed state. This is because weak measurement involves obtaining partial information about a quantum system, which can result in a mixed state where the system is in a probabilistic combination of different states.

4. What is a mixed state?

A mixed state is a quantum state that is a probabilistic combination of multiple pure states. This can occur when the system is not in a definite state, but rather a superposition of multiple states with different probabilities.

5. How does weak measurement impact the accuracy of quantum measurements?

Weak measurement can improve the accuracy of quantum measurements in certain cases, such as when measuring properties that are easily disturbed by strong measurement. However, in other cases, strong measurement may be necessary to obtain more accurate results.

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