Sequential Products of Quantum Measurements

Abstract

Our basic structure is a finite-dimensional complex Hilbert space $H$. We point out that the set of effects on $H$ form a convex effect algebra. Although the set of operators on $H$ also form a convex effect algebra, they have a more detailed structure. W introduce sequential products of effect and operations. Although these have already been studied, we introduce the new concept of sequential products of effects with operations and operations with effects. We then consider various special types of operations. After developing properties of these concepts, the results are generalized to include observables and instruments. In particular, sequential products of observables with instruments and instruments with observables are developed. Finally, we consider conditioning and coexistence of observables and instruments.