Experimental test of error-disturbance uncertainty relation with continuous variables

Abstract

Uncertainty relation is one of the fundamental principle in quantum mechanics and plays an important role in quantum information science. We experimentally test the error-disturbance uncertainty relation (EDR) with continuous variables for Gaussian states. Two conjugate continuous-variable observables, amplitude and phase quadratures of an optical mode, are measured simultaneously by using a heterodyne measurement system. The EDR with continuous variables for a coherent state, a squeezed state and a thermal state are verified experimentally. Our experimental results demonstrate that Heisenberg's EDR with continuous variables is violated, yet Ozawa's and Branciard's EDR with continuous variables are validated.