Device-independent Verification of Quantum Coherence without Quantum Control

Abstract

Quantum coherence plays a crucial role in manipulating and controlling quantum systems, leading to breakthroughs in various fields such as quantum information, quantum sensing, and the detection of gravitational waves. Most coherence witnesses rely on the assumption of being able to control quantum states. Here we report a device-independent coherence model by extending the standard Bell theory to multiple source scenarios. We propose a Greenberger-Horne-Zeilinger-type paradox to verify the particle and wave behaviors of a coherent carrier. We experimentally generate generalized two-photon entangled states that violate the present paradox, witnessing spatial quantum superposition through local measurements.