Limitations on Cloning in Classical Mechanics

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates that a classical analogue of the quantum no-cloning theorem exists, but classical cloning is possible under a broader definition, with cloning complexity proportional to the object.

Contribution

It introduces a more inclusive definition of classical cloning and proves the minimal complexity required for a cloning machine.

Findings

Classical no-cloning theorem analogous to quantum case

Classical cloning is possible with a broader definition

Cloning machine complexity is at least that of the object

Abstract

In this paper, we show that a result precisely analogous to the traditional quantum no-cloning theorem holds in classical mechanics. This classical no-cloning theorem does not prohibit classical cloning, we argue, because it is based on a too-restrictive definition of cloning. Using a less popular, more inclusive definition of cloning, we give examples of classical cloning processes. We also prove that a cloning machine must be at least as complicated as the object it is supposed to clone.