Violation of a Leggett–Garg inequality with ideal non-invasive measurements

George C. Knee (), Stephanie Simmons, Erik M. Gauger, John J.L. Morton, Helge Riemann, Nikolai V. Abrosimov, Peter Becker, Hans-Joachim Pohl, Kohei M. Itoh, Mike L.W. Thewalt, G. Andrew D. Briggs and Simon C. Benjamin
Additional contact information
George C. Knee: University of Oxford, Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3PH, UK.
Stephanie Simmons: University of Oxford, Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3PH, UK.
Erik M. Gauger: University of Oxford, Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3PH, UK.
John J.L. Morton: University of Oxford, Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3PH, UK.
Helge Riemann: Leibniz-Institut für Kristallzüchtung
Nikolai V. Abrosimov: Leibniz-Institut für Kristallzüchtung
Peter Becker: PTB Braunschweig
Hans-Joachim Pohl: VITCON Projectconsult GmbH
Kohei M. Itoh: School of Fundamental Science and Technology, Keio University
Mike L.W. Thewalt: Simon Fraser University
G. Andrew D. Briggs: University of Oxford, Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3PH, UK.
Simon C. Benjamin: University of Oxford, Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3PH, UK.

Nature Communications, 2012, vol. 3, issue 1, 1-6

Abstract: Abstract The quantum superposition principle states that an entity can exist in two different states simultaneously, counter to our 'classical' intuition. Is it possible to understand a given system's behaviour without such a concept? A test designed by Leggett and Garg can rule out this possibility. The test, originally intended for macroscopic objects, has been implemented in various systems. However to date no experiment has employed the 'ideal negative result' measurements that are required for the most robust test. Here we introduce a general protocol for these special measurements using an ancillary system, which acts as a local measuring device but which need not be perfectly prepared. We report an experimental realization using spin-bearing phosphorus impurities in silicon. The results demonstrate the necessity of a non-classical picture for this class of microscopic system. Our procedure can be applied to systems of any size, whether individually controlled or in a spatial ensemble.

Date: 2012
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DOI: 10.1038/ncomms1614

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