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Repeatable measurements in quantum theory: Their role and feasibility

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Abstract

Recent advantages in experimental quantum physics call for a careful reconsideration of the measurement process in quantum mechanics. In this paper we describe the structure of the ideal measurements and their status among the repeatable measurements. Then we provide an exhaustive account of the interrelations between repeatability and the apparently weaker notions of value reproducible or first- kind measurements. We demonstrate the close link between repeatable measurements and discrete observables and show how the ensuing measurement limitations for continuous observables can be lifted in a way that is in full accordance with actual experimental practice. We present examples of almost repeatable measurements of continuous observables and some realistic models of weakly disturbing measurements.

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Author notes

  1. Paul Busch

    Present address: Department of Applied Mathematics, University of Hull, HU6 7RX, Hull, UK

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Physics, Harvard University, 02138, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA

    Paul Busch

  2. Institute of Physics, Nicolaus Copernicus University, PL-87-100, Toruń, Poland

    Marian Grabowski

  3. Department of Physics, University of Turku, SF-20500, Turku, Finland

    Pekka J. Lahti

Authors
  1. Paul Busch
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  2. Marian Grabowski
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  3. Pekka J. Lahti
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Additional information

Dedicated to Peter Mittelstaedt on the occasion of his 65th birthday.

Leaving the Institute for Theoretical Physics, University of Cologne, D-50937 Cologne, Germany.

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Busch, P., Grabowski, M. & Lahti, P.J. Repeatable measurements in quantum theory: Their role and feasibility. Found Phys 25, 1239–1266 (1995). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02055331

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