Cloning Photons: Is State of the Original Determinable?

Even if it were possible, the act of cloning would alter the state of the original photon, making it impossible to determine its initial polarization state.
  • #1
phrygian
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Homework Statement



A single photon is produced in an unknown polarization state. Suppose it were possible to copy (clone) this photon without knowing its state. (actually perfect cloning is impossible)
By cloning you could produce a large number of identical photons.
If you could clone the photon would it be possible to determine the state of the original photon?
If so, how? If not, explain.


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



By sending a large number of identical photons through the polaroid you could determine the probability of a photon passing through, which is the magnitude squared of the amplitude, which is the inner product of the polarization state of the photon and the transmission axis of the polaroid sheet.

I am confused if the answer is yes or no because isn't there more than one possible polarization state that will have the same amplitude after passing through the sheet?
 
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  • #2


I would like to clarify that cloning a single photon is not currently possible in the field of quantum mechanics. This is due to the fundamental principles of quantum mechanics, specifically the no-cloning theorem, which states that it is impossible to create an identical copy of an unknown quantum state.

Even if it were possible to clone a photon, it would not be possible to determine the state of the original photon. This is because the act of cloning would change the state of the original photon, making it impossible to determine its initial state.

Furthermore, as mentioned in the question, perfect cloning is impossible. This means that the cloned photons would not be identical to the original photon, and their polarization states would not necessarily be the same.

In summary, cloning a single photon and determining its state is not possible according to the principles of quantum mechanics.
 

1. What is the purpose of cloning photons?

The purpose of cloning photons is to create multiple identical copies of a single photon. This can be useful in experiments and technologies that require a large number of identical photons.

2. How is the state of the original photon determined in the cloning process?

The state of the original photon is determined by measuring its properties, such as polarization and energy, before it is cloned. This information is then used to create identical copies of the photon.

3. Is the cloned photon an exact replica of the original?

Yes, the cloned photon is an exact replica of the original. It will have the same properties and behavior as the original photon.

4. Can the cloning process be repeated multiple times on the same photon?

No, it is not possible to clone a photon multiple times. Once a photon is cloned, the original photon is no longer available to be cloned again.

5. Are there any ethical concerns surrounding the cloning of photons?

No, there are no ethical concerns surrounding the cloning of photons as they are non-living particles and do not possess consciousness or feelings.

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