Physical principles and the set of quantum correlations

Author(s)

Amanda Maria Fonseca

• Document type: Master's Dissertation
• Press: São Paulo.
• Institution: Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Instituto de Física (IF/SBI)
• Defense date: 2024-11-12

Examining board members

Barbara Lopes Amaral; Ana Cristina Sprotte Costa; Gláucia Murta Guimarães

• Advisor: Barbara Lopes Amaral

Abstract

For over a century, we have sought to understand the abstract formulation of quantum theory from more convincing physical arguments, and this is one of the most enticing scientific challenges of recent times: to derive quantum theory from simple physical principles. There are various ideas on how to approach this, and at least two different approaches to the problem stand out. The first consists of assuming general probabilistic theories that allow probability distributions more general than those that arise in quantum theory, with the goal of finding principles that select quantum theory from this range of possible theories, reconstructing quantum theory as a purely operational probabilistic theory that follows from certain sets of axioms. Although successful, this approach does not completely resolve the problem. Another approach goes in a different direction. Instead of attempting to reconstruct quantum theory as a whole, the focus is on understanding which physical principles explain two of the most peculiar aspects of quantum theory: nonlocality and contextuality, using a device-independent approach. This is one of the key questions we aim to investigate with this masters project: what are the physical principles that explain nonlocality and contextuality in quantum systems? (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 22/05455-5 - Physical principles and the set of quantum correlations
• Grantee: Amanda Maria Fonseca
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Master