Basic quantum mechanics: Hilbert space, observables, Hermitian operators, the Schrödinger representation, the Heisenberg representation, the interaction representation, the Schrödinger equation, the measurement problem, entanglement, Einstein's 'spooky action at a distance' impact.

Quantum information handling: local operations and classical communication, quantum key distribution, various quantum calculation infrastructures.

Dynamics of open quantum systems in general. Time evolution of partial density matrices. Kraus operators.

Quantum-Markov processes. The Lindblad equation and Lindblad operators.

Decoherence and dissipation. Quality measures.

General dynamics of open quantum systems: The Feynman-Vernon functional.

Real sources of error in quantum calculation components. The Aharonov-Kitaev-Nisan model for error propagation.

The Jaynes-Cumming model and the spin-boson model.

Simulation techniques for open quantum systems with memory.

After passing the course, the student shall be able to

• use basic theoretical and numerical methods to describe quantum systems interacting with an environment
• give an account of how performance and limitations of quantum information systems and components depend on the properties and interference from a quantum mechanical environment
• evaluate and design quantum information components

in order to

• in an independent and scientifically substantiated way, be able to understand and appreciate the influence of the environment on mainly quantum information processing systems, but also on quantum technology more generally
• be able to assess what is possible and not possible to do with a given quantum calculation platform.

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Students at KTH with a permanent disability can get support during studies from Funka:

Funka - compensatory support for students with disabilities

• TEN1 - Written exam, 7.5 credits, grading scale: A, B, C, D, E, FX, F

Based on recommendation from KTH’s coordinator for disabilities, the examiner will decide how to adapt an examination for students with documented disability.

The examiner may apply another examination format when re-examining individual students.

If the course is discontinued, students may request to be examined during the following two academic years.

Grade A is examined through an oral examination.

• All members of a group are responsible for the group's work.
• In any assessment, every student shall honestly disclose any help received and sources used.
• In an oral assessment, every student shall be able to present and answer questions about the entire assignment and solution.