journal article·2025-05-06Open access

Phase Space Insights: Wigner Functions for Qubits and Beyond

Luis L. Sánchez-Soto, Ariana Muñoz, Pablo de la Hoz, Andrei B. Klimov, Gerd Leuchs

Applied Sciences· Volume 15· Issue 9

Abstract

Phase space methods, particularly Wigner functions, provide intuitive tools for representing and analyzing quantum states. We focus on systems with SU(2) dynamical symmetry, which naturally describes spin and a wide range of two-mode quantum models. We present a unified phase space framework tailored to these systems, highlighting its broad applicability in quantum optics, metrology, and information. After reviewing the core SU(2) phase-space formalism, we apply it to states designed for optimal quantum sensing, where their nonclassical features are clearly revealed in the Wigner representation. We then extend the approach to systems with an indefinite number of excitations, introducing a generalized framework that captures correlations across multiple SU(2)-invariant subspaces. These results offer practical tools for understanding both theoretical and experimental developments in quantum science.
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Research context

OpenAlex topics: Quantum Information and Cryptography · Quantum Mechanics and Applications · Quantum Computing Algorithms and Architecture

SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.

Affiliations

Departamento de Óptica, Facultad de Física, Universidad Complutense, 28040 Madrid, Spain

Max–Planck–Institut für die Physik des Lichts, 91058 Erlangen, Germany

Institute for Quantum Studies, Chapman University, Orange, CA 92866, USA

Facultad de Ingeniería, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, Talca 3460000, Chile

Departamento de Física, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara 44420, Mexico

Department of Physics, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91058 Erlangen, Germany

Funding

Spanish Agencia Estatal de Investigación · Mexican CONAHCyT · Chilean Agencia Nacional de Investigación y Desarrollo

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