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arXiv · 1607.01764

Tunnelling necessitates negative Wigner function

Yin Long Lin·Oscar C. O. Dahlsten
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Abstract

We consider in what sense quantum tunnelling is associated with non-classical probabilistic behaviour. We use the Wigner function quasi-probability description of quantum states. We give a definition of tunnelling that allows us to say whether in a given scenario there is tunnelling or not. We prove that this can only happen if either the Wigner function is negative and/or a certain measurement operator which we call the tunnelling rate operator has a negative Wigner function.

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Yin Long Lin, Oscar C. O. Dahlsten. 2016-07-06. Tunnelling necessitates negative Wigner function. https://doi.org/10.1103/physreva.102.062210

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