Quantum coherence, coherent information and information gain in quantum measurement

Abstract

A measurement is deemed successful, if one can maximize the information gain by the measurement apparatus. Here, we ask if quantum coherence of the system imposes a limitation on the information gain during quantum measurement. First, we argue that the information gain in a quantum measurement is nothing but the coherent information or the distinct quantum information that one can send from the system to apparatus. We prove that the maximum information gain from a pure state, using a mixed apparatus is upper bounded by the initial coherence of the system. Further, we illustrate the measurement scenario in the presence of environment. We argue that the information gain is upper bounded by the entropy exchange between the system and the apparatus. Also, to maximize the information gain, both the initial coherence of the apparatus, and the final entanglement between the system and apparatus should be maximum. Moreover, we find that for a fixed amount of coherence in the final apparatus state, if it is more robust (less disturbance), then the information gain will be more.