Published October 28, 1982 | Version v1
Journal article

A single quantum cannot be cloned

  • 1. Texas Univ., Austin (USA). Center for Theoretical Physics
  • 2. California Inst. of Tech., Pasadena (USA)

Description

It is demonstrated that the linearity of quantum mechanics forbids the amplification of an arbitary polarization. In particular the case of photon-atom collisions producing stimulated emission of a photon having the same polarization as that of the ingoing photon, is examined. The practical interest in replicating individual photons is stressed. (U.K.)

Additional details

Publishing Information

Journal Title
Nature (London)
Journal Volume
299
Journal Issue
5886
Series
Nature (London).
Journal Page Range
802-803
ISSN
0028-0836

INIS