Weak-value amplification beyond the standard quantum limit in position measurements

Abstract

In a weak measurement with postselection, a measurement value, called the weak value, can be amplified beyond the eigenvalues of an observable. However, there are some controversies whether weak-value amplification is practically useful in increasing the sensitivity of the measurement, in which fundamental quantum noise dominates. In this paper, we investigate the sensitivity limit of an optical interferometer when weak-value amplification is implemented, properly accounting for quantum shot noise and radiation-pressure noise. To do so, we formulate weak-value amplification in the Heisenberg picture instead of in the Schrödinger picture, which is conventionally used. This formulation enables us to understand intuitively what happens when the measurement outcome is postselected and the weak value is amplified. As a result, we find that the sensitivity limit is given by the standard quantum limit that is the same as in a standard interferometry. We also discuss a way to circumvent the standard quantum limit.

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