Anomalous weak values are caused by disturbance

TL;DR

This paper argues that anomalous weak values observed in weak measurements are primarily caused by the disturbance introduced during the measurement process, challenging the idea that they are purely quantum phenomena.

Contribution

The paper provides a disturbance-based explanation for anomalous weak values, emphasizing the role of measurement disturbance over other interpretations.

Findings

Disturbance from weak measurements significantly influences measurement outcomes.

Anomalous weak values can be explained by measurement disturbance rather than quantum effects.

The explanation challenges the notion that anomalous weak values are inherently quantum phenomena.

Abstract

In combination with post-selection, weak measurements can lead to surprising results known as anomalous weak values. These lie outside the bounds of the spectrum of the relevant observable, as in the canonical example of measuring the spin of an electron (along some axis) to be 100. We argue that the disturbance caused by the weak measurement, while small, is sufficient to significantly affect the measurement result, and that this is the most reasonable explanation of anomalous weak values.