Quantum interference experiments, modular variables and weak measurements

We address the problem of interference using the Heisenberg picture and highlight some new aspects through the use of pre-selection, post-selection, weak measurements, and modular variables, We present a physical explanation for the different behaviors of a single particle when the distant slit is open or closed: instead of having a quantum wave that passes through all slits, we have a localized particle with non-local interactions with the other slit(s). We introduce a Gedankenexperiment to measure this non-local exchange. While the Heisenberg picture and the Schrodinger pictures are equivalent formulations of quantum mechanics, nevertheless, the results discussed here support a new approach which has led to new insights, new intuitions, new experiments, and even the possibility of new devices that were missed from the old perspective

Pre- and post-selection, weak values, and contextuality

By analyzing the concept of contextuality (Bell-Kochen-Specker) in terms of pre-and-post-selection (PPS), it is possible to assign definite values to observables in a new and surprising way. Physical reasons are presented for restrictions on these assignments. When measurements are performed which do not disturb the pre- and post-selection (i.e. weak measurements), then novel experimental aspects of contextuality can be demonstrated including a proof that every PPS-paradox with definite predictions implies contextuality. Certain results of these measurements (eccentric weak values with e.g. negative values outside the spectrum), however, cannot be explained by a "classical-like" hidden variable theory.Comment: Identical content; stream-lined verbal presentatio

A Novel Phase Shift Acquired due to Virtual Forces

This paper has been withdrawn by the author.Comment: This paper has been withdrawn by the author. 11 pages, 4 figure

An explicit Schr\"odinger picture for Aharonov's Modular Variable concept

We propose to address in a natural manner, the modular variable concept explicitly in a Schr\"odinger picture. The idea of Modular Variables was introduced in 1969 by Aharonov, Pendleton and Petersen to explain certain non-local properties of quantum mechanics. Our approach to this subject is based on Schwinger's finite quantum kinematics and it's continuous limit.Comment: 16 pages, 9 figure

Current-biased Transition-edge Sensors Based on Re-entrant Superconductors

AbstractTransition-edge sensors are widely recognized as one of the most sensitive tools for the photon and particles detection in many areas, from astrophysics to quantum computing. Their application became practical after understanding that rather than being biased in a constant current mode, they should be biased in a constant voltage mode. Despite the methods of voltage biasing of these sensors are well developed since then, generally the current biasing is more convenient for superconducting circuits. Thus transition-edge sensors designed inherently to operate in the current-biased mode are desirable. We developed a design for such detectors based on re-entrant superconductivity. In this case constant current biasing takes place in the normal state, below the superconducting transition, so that following the absorption of a photon it does not yield a latching. Rather, the sensor gains energy and shifts towards the lower resistant (e.g., superconducting) state, and then cools down faster (since Joule heating is now reduced), and resets in a natural way to be able to detect the next photon. We prototyped this kind of transition edge sensors and tested them operational in accordance with the outlined physics. The samples used in experiments were modified compositions of YBCO-superconductors in a ceramic form (which, as we discovered, reproducibly demonstrates re-entrant superconductivity). In this presentation we report their composition, methods of preparation, and the detection results. This approach, in some areas, may have practical advantage over the traditional voltage-biased devices

Superconducting Antenna Concept for Gravitational Waves

The most advanced contemporary efforts and concepts for registering gravitational waves are focused on measuring tiny deviations in large arm (kilometers in case of LIGO and thousands of kilometers in case of LISA) interferometers via photons. In this report we discuss a concept for the detection of gravitational waves using an antenna comprised of superconducting electrons (Cooper pairs) moving in an ionic lattice. The major challenge in this approach is that the tidal action of the gravitational waves is extremely weak compared with electromagnetic forces. Any motion caused by gravitational waves, which violates charge neutrality, will be impeded by Coulomb forces acting on the charge carriers (Coulomb blockade) in metals, as well as in superconductors. We discuss a design, which avoids the effects of Coulomb blockade. It exploits two different superconducting materials used in a form of thin wires -“spaghetti.” The spaghetti will have a diameter comparable to the London penetration depth, and length of about 1-10 meters. To achieve competitive sensitivity, the antenna would require billions of spaghettis, which calls for a challenging manufacturing technology. If successfully materialized, the response of the antenna to the known highly periodic sources of gravitational radiation, such as the Pulsar in Crab Nebula will result in an output current, detectable by superconducting electronics. The antenna will require deep (0.3K) cryogenic cooling and magnetic shielding. This design may be a viable successor to LISA and LIGO concepts, having the prospect of higher sensitivity, much smaller size and directional selectivity. This concept of compact antenna may benefit also terrestrial gradiometry

Superconducting Antenna Concept for Gravitational Waves

The most advanced contemporary efforts and concepts for registering gravitational waves are focused on measuring tiny deviations in large arm (kilometers in case of LIGO and thousands of kilometers in case of LISA) interferometers via photons. In this report we discuss a concept for the detection of gravitational waves using an antenna comprised of superconducting electrons (Cooper pairs) moving in an ionic lattice. The major challenge in this approach is that the tidal action of the gravitational waves is extremely weak compared with electromagnetic forces. Any motion caused by gravitational waves, which violates charge neutrality, will be impeded by Coulomb forces acting on the charge carriers (Coulomb blockade) in metals, as well as in superconductors. We discuss a design, which avoids the effects of Coulomb blockade. It exploits two different superconducting materials used in a form of thin wires -“spaghetti.” The spaghetti will have a diameter comparable to the London penetration depth, and length of about 1-10 meters. To achieve competitive sensitivity, the antenna would require billions of spaghettis, which calls for a challenging manufacturing technology. If successfully materialized, the response of the antenna to the known highly periodic sources of gravitational radiation, such as the Pulsar in Crab Nebula will result in an output current, detectable by superconducting electronics. The antenna will require deep (0.3K) cryogenic cooling and magnetic shielding. This design may be a viable successor to LISA and LIGO concepts, having the prospect of higher sensitivity, much smaller size and directional selectivity. This concept of compact antenna may benefit also terrestrial gradiometry

“Spaghetti” Design for Gravitational Wave Superconducting Antenna

A new concept for detectors of gravitational wave radiation is discussed. Estimates suggest that strain sensitivity essentially better than that of the existing devices can be achieved in the wide frequency range. Such sensitivity could be obtained with devices about one meter long. Suggested device consists of multi-billion bimetallic superconducting wires ( spaghettis ) and requires cryogenic operational temperatures (~0.3K in the case considered)