Reconciling quantum trajectories and stationary quantum distributions in single-photon polarization states

TL;DR

This paper explores how quantum trajectories and stationary distributions can be reconciled in single-photon polarization states using an extended Bohmian approach, providing a unified view of quantum optical polarization.

Contribution

It introduces an extension of Bohmian mechanics to quantum optical polarization, linking trajectories with stationary distributions through phase field topology.

Findings

Bohmian formulation effectively describes polarization states

Trajectories and distributions are unified via phase topology

Provides new insights into quantum polarization representation

Abstract

The question of the representation of quantum stationary partially polarized waves as random superpositions of different polarization ellipses is addressed. To this end, the Bohmian formulation of quantum mechanics is considered and extended to quantum optical polarization. As is shown, this approach properly combines definite time-evolving trajectories with rigorous stationary quantum distributions via the topology displayed by the associated phase field.