Can a qubit have a finite number of ontic states in an epistemic model?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the possibility of an epistemic model for a qubit that has a finite number of ontic states. The paper referenced, "https://arxiv.org/abs/1409.1570," introduces the Spekkens toy bit, which has four ontic states but only models a qubit prepared in three specific quantum states. Participants question whether there exists a model that accurately represents a full qubit or if a proof exists demonstrating that infinite ontic states are necessary to align with quantum mechanics predictions. The consensus is that modeling quantum mechanics accurately necessitates an infinite continuum of potential outcomes.

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  • Understanding of quantum mechanics principles
  • Familiarity with epistemic versus ontic interpretations of quantum states
  • Knowledge of the Spekkens toy model and its implications
  • Basic grasp of quantum state preparation and measurement outcomes
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  • Research the implications of the Spekkens toy model on quantum state representation
  • Explore the concept of ontic states in quantum mechanics
  • Investigate alternative epistemic models for qubits
  • Study proofs related to the necessity of infinite states in quantum mechanics
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This discussion is beneficial for quantum physicists, researchers in quantum information theory, and students exploring the foundations of quantum mechanics and epistemic models.

msumm21
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I'm reading the following paper.
https://arxiv.org/abs/1409.1570

Is there an epistemic model of a qubit in which the number of ontic states is finite? I realize Spekkens toy bit discussed in the paper has only 4 ontic states, but it seems to only model a qubit that was prepared in one of 3 quantum states and is not representative of qubit in general.

Is there either another model like Spekkens that does represent a full blown qubit or alternatively a proof that shows infinite states would be required?
 
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msumm21 said:
Is there an epistemic model of a qubit in which the number of ontic states is finite?

I don't see how there could be since matching the predictions of QM requires modeling a continuous infinity of possible experimental outcomes.
 

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