Sensitivity Bounds of Multiparameter Metrology at Thermal Equilibrium

TL;DR

This paper investigates the fundamental precision limits of multiparameter quantum metrology at thermal equilibrium, establishing bounds, conditions for attainability, and differences at low temperatures.

Contribution

It derives the ultimate sensitivity bounds for multiparameter quantum metrology at thermal equilibrium and characterizes conditions for achieving these bounds.

Findings

Heisenberg limit can be achieved with multiple probes.

Sensitivity bounds coincide with single-parameter bounds when estimating one parameter.

Low temperature behavior differs qualitatively from finite temperature case.

Abstract

Quantum metrology aims to enhance measurement precision beyond the classical limit by leveraging quantum resources. Unlike multi-parameter dynamic quantum metrology, many questions regarding multiparameter quantum metrology at thermal equilibrium remain elusive. In particular, the ultimate precision limits achievable in this equilibrium setting are not yet well understood. In this work, we examine the fundamental limits of estimating multiple parameters with a quantum probe at thermal equilibrium. We first show that the Heisenberg limit with respect to the number of probes can be achieved, and our bound coincides with the known single-parameter bound when only one parameter is estimated. We then consider the low temperature limit, revealing a qualitatively different behavior compared to the finite temperature case. We give an example to illustrate the usage of our main results. Finally, we show the conditions under which the sensitivity bound can be attained and the optimal measurements to achieve it.