Condensed Matter Seminar: Quantum Weak Values in Classical Interferometry

Abstract:

When two beams interfere their corresponding spots on a detector can fall exactly in the same place, and yet, the beams might not have parallel propagation directions. A detector placed far away will be able to reveal the difference in direction, but will be less effective in detecting a shift in position.

We present an alignment method based on a single stationary detector which allows to correct both spatial and angular misalignment. Our approach is inspired by and most easily understood in the framework of the Two-State Vector formalism. This means that in addition to the standard forward evolving wave function created in the source, photons inside an interferometer are also described by a backward evolving wave function created by the detection of the photons in the detector.

Event Organizer: Dr. Eran Sela