Theoretical investigation of the relations between quantum decoherence and weak-to-strong measurement transition

Xiao-Feng Song, Shuang Liu, Xi-Hao Chen, Yusuf Turek

Published 2024-04-30Version 1

This paper delves into the crucial aspects of pointer-induced quantum decoherence and the transition between von Neumann's projective strong measurement and Aharonov's weak measurement. Both phenomena significantly impact the dynamical understanding of quantum measurement processes. Specifically, we focus on the interplay between quantum decoherence and the transition from weak to strong measurement by deducing and comparing the quantum decoherence and weak-to-strong measurement transition factors within a general model and using the well-known Stern-Gerlach experiment as an illustrative example. Our findings reveal that both phenomena can be effectively characterized by a universal transition factor intricately linked to the coupling between the system and the measurement apparatus. The analysis presented can clarify the mechanism behind the relations of quantum decoherence to the weak measurement and weak-to-strong measurement transition.