APPPHYS 225: Probability and Quantum Mechanics (AY2008) Tue+Thu 2:15-3:30pm / 126 McCollough
This course will introduce modern perspectives on fundamental aspects of quantum probability and will survey contemporary applications in quantum information science. Parallels with classical probability will be emphasized in a way that clarifies quantum measurement theory and highlights practical utility. A firm command of undergraduate quantum mechanics and familiarity with basic probability theory are assumed.
Syllabus
Final version: link
Reference materials
The following online materials will be utilized to provide supplemental reading for this course:
Introduction to Probability - Charles M. Grinstead and J. Laurie Snell : link
Please inform the instructor if you discover that either of these links disappears!
There are also a few published books that you might find relevant, but these will not actually be referenced explicitly in this course.
Class notes and assignments
Tue 9/23: Overview slides; class notes: classical probability review part 1
Tue 9/30: Class notes: quantum states and measurements as a non-commutative probability model Tue 10/14: Class notes: inference-disturbance tradeoffs in quantum measurement Tue 10/21: Class notes: pure/mixed states, coherent superposition versus incoherent mixture Tue 10/28: Class notes: Projection Postulate from classical Bayes’ Rule in indirect measurement Tue 11/4: Class notes: entanglement, Schmidt decomposition and quantum eraser Tue 11/11: In class we discussed sections II.A-B and III.A.1-2 of: Tue 11/18: Class notes: probability models from symmetry considerations; also Section 1.2 of this book |