Computable Functions, Quantum Measurements, and Quantum Dynamics

M. A. Nielsen
Phys. Rev. Lett. 79, 2915 – Published 13 October 1997
PDFExport Citation

Abstract

We construct quantum mechanical observables and unitary operators which, if implemented in physical systems as measurements and dynamical evolutions, would contradict the Church-Turing thesis which lies at the foundation of computer science. We conclude that either the Church-Turing thesis needs revision, or that only restricted classes of observables may be realized, in principle, as measurements, and that only restricted classes of unitary operators may be realized, in principle, as dynamics.

  • Received 4 June 1997

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.79.2915

©1997 American Physical Society

Authors & Affiliations

M. A. Nielsen

  • Center for Advanced Studies, Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87131-1156
  • and Norman Bridge Laboratory of Physics 12-33, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, California 91125

References (Subscription Required)

Click to Expand
Issue

Vol. 79, Iss. 15 — 13 October 1997

Reuse & Permissions
Access Options
Author publication services for translation and copyediting assistance advertisement

Authorization Required


×
×

Images

×

Sign up to receive regular email alerts from Physical Review Letters

Log In

Cancel
×

Search


Article Lookup

Paste a citation or DOI

Enter a citation
×