Year: 2013
Type: article
Abstract: We examine the notion of nonclassicality in terms of quasiprobability distributions. In particular, we not only ask if a specific quasiprobability can be interpreted as a classical probability density, but we also require that characteristic features of classical electrodynamics are resembled. We show that the only quasiprobabilities that correctly describe the superposition principle of classical electromagnetic fields are the $s$-parametrized quasiprobabilities. Furthermore, the Glauber-Sudarshan $P$ function is the only quantum-mechanical quasiprobability that is transformed at a classical attenuator in the same way as a classical probability distribution. This result strengthens the definition of nonclassicality in terms of the $P$ function, in contrast to possible definitions in terms of other quasiprobabilities.
Source: Physical Review A
Author: Thomas Kiesel
Institution: University of Rostock
Language: English
Subfield: Atomic and Molecular Physics, and Optics
Field: Physics and Astronomy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W2006429303