Weak values could reveal the hidden effects of quantum interactions

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates that weak-value amplification can reveal hidden effects of quantum interactions in post-selected sub-ensembles, offering a feasible measurement method for weak interactions where standard methods fail.

Contribution

Theoretical analysis showing weak values can uncover effects hidden in total ensembles and experimental simulation using trapped ions without weak interaction approximation.

Findings

Weak values reveal effects hidden in post-selected sub-ensembles

Weak-value amplification can measure weak interactions effectively

Simulation confirms theoretical predictions without weak interaction approximation

Abstract

Due to the reduced probability of successful post-selection, the weak-value amplification seems to be unavailable for the parameter-estimation. Here, we show theoretically that, some effects due to the weak interactions present only in the properly post-selected sub-ensemble, however are canceled by themselves in the total ensemble. From this point of view, the post-selection induced weak value could be one of the feasible methods for measuring the weak interaction, since the standard measurement does not work. Additionally, we employ the system of trapped ions to simulate the weak measurement and calculate relevant results without the frequently-used weak interaction approximation.