Extraction of information from a single quantum

Abstract

We investigate the possibility of performing quantum tomography on a single qubit with generalized partial measurements and the technique of measurement reversal. Using concepts from statistical decision theory, we prove that, somewhat surprisingly, no information can be obtained using this scheme. It is shown that, irrespective of the measurement technique used, extraction of information from single quanta is at odds with other general principles of quantum physics.Comment: 5 pages, 1 figur