Pre- and post-selection paradoxes in quantum walks

Abstract

Many features of single-partite quantum walks can be simulated by classical waves. However, it was recently experimentally shown that some temporal sequences of measurements on a quantum walker do not admit a classical description in terms of macro-realistic theories. Here, we extend this observation and present pre- and post-selection scenarios in quantum walks leading to logical paradoxes. Such paradoxes were recently shown to be equivalent to proofs of contextuality, therefore we provide an additional argument for non-classicality of a quantum walk model. The assumptions behind the claims of non-classicality (including contextuality and violations of macro-realism) are also discussed.

Keywords

• quantum walks
• pre- and post-selection paradoxes
• contextuality