Measurement of the quantum phase by photon counting
Sep 9, 1991Citations per year
Abstract: (APS)
We address the problem of identifying the dynamical variables representing the phase of a quantum field by analyzing what is measured in two simple homodyne experiments. This leads us to identify operators C^M,S^M corresponding to the measured cosine and sine of the phase difference. The predictions of the theory are tested in an experiment in which the input fields are derived from a highly stable He:Ne laser. Photon-counting measurements extending from mean photon numbers 30 down to 10−2 show good agreement between theory and experiment. The implications for identifying the ‘‘correct’’ phase operator are briefly discussed.- 42.50.Wm
- 03.65.Bz
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