Unitary groups, quantum operations and linear optics

Abstract

This master thesis deals with the implementation of an algorithm which simulates the evolution of an optical system based on (quantum) linear optics; more specifically, we consider the evolution of n photons which are to be distributed in m modes. The procedure under consideration provides also a method which allows us to recreate the implemented optical system in the laboratory. The algorithm is based on the decomposition of the evolution matrix in optical elements which are easy to handle in the laboratory. The output of the algorithm coincides with the expected data according to the already existing theoretical models. However, the algorithm turns out to have a high computational complexity.