Threshold size for the emergence of classical-like behavior

Abstract

In this work we design a procedure to estimate the minimum size beyond which a system is amenable to a classical-like description, i.e. a description based on representative points in classical phase-spaces. This is obtained by relating quantum states to representative points via Generalized Coherent States (GCS), and designing a POVM for GCS discrimination. Conditions upon this discrimination are defined, such that the POVM results convey enough information to meet our needs for reliability and precision, as gauged by two parameters $\epsilon$, of our arbitrary choice, and $\delta$, set by the experimental apparatus, respectively. The procedure implies a definition of what is meant by "size" of the system, in terms of the number $N$ of elementary constituents that provide the global algebra leading to the phase-space for the emergent classical-like description. The above conditions on GCS discrimination can be thus turned into $N>N_{\rm t}(\epsilon,\delta)$, where $N_{\rm t}(\epsilon,\delta)$ is the threshold size mentioned in the title. The specific case of a magnetic system is considered, with details of a gedanken experiment presented and thoroughly commented. Results for pseudo-spin and bosonic systems are also given.