@article{2015-robens-alberti-phys-rev-x-fe-in-phy-v5-p011003, Abstract = {

We report on a stringent test of the nonclassicality of the motion of a massive quantum particle, which propagates on a discrete lattice. Measuring temporal correlations of the position of single atoms performing a quantum walk, we observe a 6σ violation of the Leggett-Garg inequality. Our results rigorously excludes (i.e., falsifies) any explanation of quantum transport based on classical, well-defined trajectories. We use so-called ideal negative measurements—an essential requisite for any genuine Leggett-Garg test—to acquire information about the atom’s position, yet avoiding any direct interaction with it. The interaction-free measurement is based on a novel atom transport system, which allows us to directly probe the absence rather than the presence of atoms at a chosen lattice site. Beyond the fundamental aspect of this test, we demonstrate the application of the Leggett-Garg correlation function as a witness of quantum superposition. Here, we employ the witness to discriminate different types of walks spanning from merely classical to wholly quantum dynamics.

}, Author = {Robens, C. AND Alt, W. AND Meschede, D. AND Emary, C. AND Alberti, A.}, Journal = {Phys. Rev. X (Featured in Physics)}, Pages = {011003}, Title = {{Ideal Negative Measurements in Quantum Walks Disprove Theories Based on Classical Trajectories}}, Volume = {5}, Year = {2015} }