Efficiency Loophole Research Articles

Exponentially Decreasing Critical Detection Efficiency for Any Bell Inequality.

We address the problem of closing the detection efficiency loophole in Bell experiments, which is crucial for real-world applications. Every Bell inequality has a critical detection efficiency η that must be surpassed to avoid the detection loophole. Here, we propose a general method for reducing the critical detection efficiency of any Bell inequality to arbitrary low values. This is accomplished by entangling two particles in N orthogonal subspaces (e.g., N degrees of freedom) and conducting N Bell tests in parallel. Furthermore, the proposed method is based on the introduction of penalized N-product (PNP) Bell inequalities, for which the so-called simultaneous measurement loophole is closed, and the maximum value for local hidden-variable theories is simply the Nth power of the one of the Bell inequality initially considered. We show that, for the PNP Bell inequalities, the critical detection efficiency decays exponentially with N. The strength of our method is illustrated with a detailed study of the PNP Bell inequalities resulting from the Clauser-Horne-Shimony-Holt inequality.

Loophole-Free Interferometric Test of Macrorealism Using Heralded Single Photons

We show unambiguous violations of different macrorealist inequalities, like the LGI and the WLGI using a heralded, single-photon based experimental setup comprising one Mach-Zehnder interferometer followed by a displaced Sagnac one. The negative result measurements (NRM) are implemented in order to validate the presumption of non-invasive measurability used in defining macrorealism. Among all the experiments to date testing macrorealism, the present experiment stands out in comprehensively addressing the relevant loopholes. The clumsiness loophole is addressed through precision testing of any classical invasiveness involved in the implementation of NRMs. This is done by suitably choosing the experimental parameters so that the quantum mechanically (QM) predicted validity of all the relevant two-time no-signalling in time (NSIT) conditions is maintained in all the three pairwise experiments performed to show LGI/WLGI violation. Further, importantly, the detection efficiency loophole is addressed by adopting suitable modifications in the measurement strategy enabling the demonstration of the violation of LGI/WLGI for any non-zero detection efficiency. We also show how other relevant loopholes like the multiphoton emission loophole, coincidence loophole, and the preparation state loophole are all closed in the present experiment. We report the LGI violation of $1.32 \pm 0.04$ and the WLGI violation of $0.10 \pm 0.02$, where the magnitudes of violation are respectively 8 times and 5 times the corresponding error values, while agreeing perfectly with the ranges of the QM predicted values of the LGI, WLGI expressions that we estimate by taking into account the non-idealities of the actual experiment. Simultaneously, the experimentally observed probabilities satisfy all the two-time NSIT conditions up to the order of $10^{-2}$, which ensures non-invasiveness in the implemented NRMs.

Bright-light detector control emulates the local bounds of Bell-type inequalities

It is well-known that no local model—in theory—can simulate the outcome statistics of a Bell-type experiment as long as the detection efficiency is higher than a threshold value. For the Clauser–Horne–Shimony–Holt (CHSH) Bell inequality this theoretical threshold value is eta _{text {T}} = 2 (sqrt{2}-1) approx 0.8284. On the other hand, Phys. Rev. Lett. 107, 170404 (2011) outlined an explicit practical model that can fake the CHSH inequality for a detection efficiency of up to 0.5. In this work, we close this gap. More specifically, we propose a method to emulate a Bell inequality at the threshold detection efficiency using existing optical detector control techniques. For a Clauser–Horne–Shimony–Holt inequality, it emulates the CHSH violation predicted by quantum mechanics up to eta _{text {T}}. For the Garg–Mermin inequality—re-calibrated by incorporating non-detection events—our method emulates its exact local bound at any efficiency above the threshold. This confirms that attacks on secure quantum communication protocols based on Bell violation is a real threat if the detection efficiency loophole is not closed.

Detection-efficiency loophole and the Pusey-Barrett-Rudolph theorem

Detection efficiency loophole poses a significant problem for experimental tests of Bell inequalities. Recently discovered Pusey-Barrett-Rudolph (PBR) theorem suffers from the same vulnerability. In this paper we calculate the critical detection efficiency, below which the PBR argument for the ontic nature of quantum state is inconclusive. This is done for the maximally $\psi$-epistemic models. We use two different definitions of this property. The optimal number of parties, for which the critical detection efficiency is the lowest is given. We also approach the problem from the opposite direction. We provide a function which enables us to specify which epistemic models are ruled out by the results of an experiment with a given detection efficiency.

Experimental proof of nonlocal wavefunction collapse for a single particle using homodyne measurements.

A single quantum particle can be described by a wavefunction that spreads over arbitrarily large distances; however, it is never detected in two (or more) places. This strange phenomenon is explained in the quantum theory by what Einstein repudiated as 'spooky action at a distance': the instantaneous nonlocal collapse of the wavefunction to wherever the particle is detected. Here we demonstrate this single-particle spooky action, with no efficiency loophole, by splitting a single photon between two laboratories and experimentally testing whether the choice of measurement in one laboratory really causes a change in the local quantum state in the other laboratory. To this end, we use homodyne measurements with six different measurement settings and quantitatively verify Einstein's spooky action by violating an Einstein-Podolsky-Rosen-steering inequality by 0.042±0.006. Our experiment also verifies the entanglement of the split single photon even when one side is untrusted.

Experimental Certification of Random Numbers via Quantum Contextuality

The intrinsic unpredictability of measurements in quantum mechanics can be used to produce genuine randomness. Here, we demonstrate a random number generator where the randomness is certified by quantum contextuality in connection with the Kochen-Specker theorem. In particular, we generate random numbers from measurements on a single trapped ion with three internal levels, and certify the generated randomness by showing a bound on the minimum entropy through observation of violation of the Klyachko-Can-Binicioglu-Shumovsky (KCBS) inequality. Concerning the test of the KCBS inequality, we close the detection efficiency loophole for the first time and make it relatively immune to the compatibility loophole. In our experiment, we generate 1 × 105 random numbers that are guaranteed to have 5.2 × 104 bits of minimum entropy with a 99% confidence level.

State-independent experimental test of quantum contextuality with a single trapped ion.

Using a single trapped ion, we have experimentally demonstrated state-independent violation of a recent version of the Kochen-Specker inequality in a three-level system (qutrit) that is intrinsically indivisible. Three ground states of the (171)Yb(+) ion representing a qutrit are manipulated with high fidelity through microwaves and detected with high efficiency through a two-step quantum jump technique. Qutrits constitute the most fundamental system to show quantum contextuality and our experiment represents the first one that closes the detection efficiency loophole for experimental tests of quantum contextuality in such a system.

Optimal free will on one side in reproducing the singlet correlation

Bell’s theorem teaches us that there are quantum correlations that cannot be simulated by just shared randomness (local hidden variable). There are some recent results which simulate the singlet correlation by using either 1 bit or a binary (no-signaling) correlation which violates Bell’s inequality maximally. But there is one more possible way to simulate quantum correlation by relaxing the condition of independency of measurement on shared randomness. Recently, Hall showed that the statistics of a singlet state can be generated by sacrificing measurement independence where underlying distribution of hidden variables depends on measurement directions of both parties (Hall 2010 Phys. Rev. Lett. 105 250404). He also proved that for any model of singlet correlation, 86% measurement independence is optimal. In this paper, we show that 59% measurement independence is optimal for simulating the singlet correlation when the underlying distribution of hidden variables depends only on the measurements of one party. We also show that a distribution corresponding to this optimal lack of free will already exists in the literature which first appeared in the context of detection efficiency loophole (Gisin and Gisin 1999 Phys. Lett. A 323–7).

Security proof of quantum key distribution with detection efficiency mismatch

In theory, quantum key distribution (QKD) offers unconditional security based on the laws of physics. However, as demonstrated in recent quantum hacking theory and experimental papers, detection efficiency loophole can be fatal to the security of practical QKD systems. Here, we describe the physical origin of detection efficiency mismatch in various domains including spatial, spectral, and time domains and in various experimental set-ups. More importantly, we prove the unconditional security of QKD even with detection efficiency mismatch. We explicitly show how the key generation rate is characterized by the maximal detection efficiency ratio between the two detectors. Furthermore, we prove that by randomly switching the bit assignments of the detectors, the effect of detection efficiency mismatch can be completely eliminated.

Quantum hacking: Experimental demonstration of time-shift attack against practical quantum-key-distribution systems

Quantum key distribution (QKD) systems can send signals over more than 100 km standard optical fiber and are widely believed to be secure. Here, we show experimentally for the first time a technologically feasible attack, namely the time-shift attack, against a commercial QKD system. Our result shows that, contrary to popular belief, an eavesdropper, Eve, has a non-negligible probability (~4%) to break the security of the system. Eve's success is due to the well-known detection efficiency loophole in the experimental testing of Bell inequalities. Therefore, the detection efficiency loophole plays a key role not only in fundamental physics, but also in technological applications such as QKD.

Einstein-Podolsky-Rosen argument and Bell inequalities for Bose-Einstein spin condensates

We discuss the properties of two Bose-Einstein condensates in different spin states, represented quantum mechanically by a double Fock state. Individual measurements of the spins of the particles are performed in transverse directions (perpendicular to the spin quantization axis), giving access to the relative phase of the two macroscopically occupied states. Before the first spin measurement, the phase is completely undetermined; after a few measurements, a more and more precise knowledge of its value emerges under the effect of the quantum measurement process. This naturally leads to the usual notion of a quasiclassical phase (Anderson phase) and to an interesting transposition of the Einstein-Podolsky-Rosen argument to macroscopic physical quantities. The purpose of this paper is to discuss this transposition, as well as situations where the notion of a quasiclassical phase is no longer sufficient to account for the quantum results, and where significant violations of Bell-type inequalities are predicted. Quantum mechanically, the problem can be treated exactly: the probability for all sequences of results can be expressed in the form of a double integral, depending on all parameters that define the experiment (number of particles, number and angles of measurements). We discuss the differences between this case and the usual two-spin case. We discuss the effect of the many parameters that the experimenters can adjust for their measurements, starting with a discussion of the effect of the angles of measurement (the ``settings''), and then envisaging various choices of the functions that are used to obtain violation of Bell-Clauser-Horne-Shimony-Holt inequalities. We then discuss how the ``sample bias loophole'' (often also called ``efficiency loophole'') can be closed in this case, by introducing a preliminary sequence of measurements to localize the particles into ``measurement boxes.'' We finally show that the same nonlocal effects can be observed with distinguishable spins.

Test of local realism with entangled kaon pairs and without inequalities.

We propose the use of entangled pairs of neutral kaons, considered as a promising tool to close the well known loopholes affecting generic Bell's inequality tests, in a specific Hardy-type experiment. Hardy's contradiction without inequalities between local realism and quantum mechanics can be translated into a feasible experiment by requiring ideal detection efficiencies for only one of the observables to be alternatively measured. Neutral kaons are near to fulfill this requirement and therefore to close the efficiency loophole.

Can experimental tests of Bell inequalities performed with pseudoscalar mesons be definitive?

We discuss if experimental tests of Bell inequalities performed with pseudoscalar mesons (K or B) can be definitive. Our conclusion is that this is not the case, for the efficiency loophole cannot be eliminated.

Correlation functions in EPR-type experiments: the low-detection- efficiency loophole

In this paper we derive a general approach using correlation functions for interpreting the results of measurements on two-particle entangled states. In our analysis we explicitly take into account the detector efficiency. We show that all Bell-type inequalities have bounds depending on both the losses in the apparatus and the supplementary assumptions about the statistical distribution of the losses themselves. Moreover, our approach enables us to include in the causal and local theory the same assumptions as used in the quantum mechanical analysis of an experiment, and to deduce the inequality which has to be satisfied by any local realistic model incorporating these assumptions. We show that, although the most recent experiments on Bell's inequality can be considered to be a remarkable step in the direction of testing quantum mechanics predictions, the loophole of the low quantum efficiency of the detector is not yet solved. In fact, using the quantum mechanical assumption of random nondetection in the causal and local approach, we deduce a generalized Bell-type inequality which includes no-count events and whose upper bound can be violated by the quantum mechanical predictions only if the detector quantum efficiency is >0.811.

Entanglement in 2DEG systems: towards a detection loophole-free test of Bell's inequality

We make use of the intrinsic noiseless and lossless aspect of an electron source in a 2DEG system to implement a new test of Bell's inequality. The generated entanglement can be tested by two-particle interferometry. Preparation and detection schemes of two complete sets of Bell states are given. A novel type of Bell's inequality is then derived in terms of noise correlation measurements. The characteristics of the electron source are essential to exhibit a violation. This electron system could close the detection efficiency loophole.

A POSSIBLE UNIFICATION OF THE COPENHAGEN AND THE BOHM INTERPRETATIONS USING LOCAL REALISM

It is well-known in the physics community that the Copenhagen interpretation of quantum mechanics is very different from the Bohm interpretation. Usually, a local realistic model is thought to be even further from these two, as in its purest form it cannot even yield the probabilities from quantum mechanics by the Bell theorem. Nevertheless, by utilizing the “efficiency loophole” such a model can mimic the quantum probabilities, and more importantly, in this paper it is shown that it is possible to interpret this latter kind of local realistic model such that it contains elements of reality as found in the Bohm interpretation, while retaining the complementarity present in the Copenhagen interpretation.

Ladder Proof of Nonlocality without Inequalities: Theoretical and Experimental Results

We show how a previous demonstration of nonlocality without inequalities for two spin-half particles can be improved so that a greater proportion of the pairs are shown to be subject to a contradiction with local realism. This is achieved by considering more settings of the apparatus at each end. Also, we report on an experimental realization employing a tunable source of polarization entangled photons. The experimental results violate locality (modulo, the efficiency loophole). {copyright} {ital 1997} {ital The American Physical Society}

On Some Aspects of an Hg Based EPR Experiment

Abstract An experimental realization of Bohm's spin-1/2 EPR gedanken-experiment is possible using the spin-1/2 nuclei of the isotope 199 Hg. The dissociation of dimers of the 199 Hg 2 isotopomer, using a spectroscopically selective stimulated Raman process, leads to the generation of an entangled state between the two 199 Hg atoms. The measurement of nuclear spin correlations between the two atoms in this entangled state is achieved by detection of the atoms using a spin state selective two photon excitation-ionization scheme. The experiment will not only close the detector efficiency loophole, but in addition will permit enforcement of the locality condition. Effects of imperfect analyzers will also be discussed.

Proposal for a loophole-free test of the Bell inequalities.

A proposal for an experimental realization of Bohm's spin-1/2 particle version of the Einstein-Podolsky-Rosen experiment is described. Two $^{199}\mathrm{Hg}$ atoms, each with nuclear spin 1/2, are produced in an entangled state with total nuclear spin zero. Such a state is obtained by dissociation of dimers of the $^{199}\mathrm{Hg}_{2}$ isotopomer using a spectroscopically selective stimulated Raman process. The measurement of nuclear spin correlations between the two atoms in this entangled state is achieved by detection of the atoms using a spin state selective two-photon excitation-ionization scheme. The experiment will not only close the detector efficiency loophole, but in addition will permit enforcement of the locality condition.