From Stochastic Optics to theWigner Formalism: The Role of the Vacuum Field in Optical Quantum Communication Experiments

Abstract

TheWigner formalism in the Heisenberg picture constitutes a bridge that connects QuantumOptics to Stochastic Optics. The vacuum field appears explicitly in the formalism, and the wavelikeaspects of light are emphasised. In addition, the zeropoint intensity as a threshold for detection is acommon denominator in both theories. In this paper, after summarising the basic rules of the Wignerapproach and its application to parametric down-conversion, some new results are presented thatdelve into the physical meaning of the zeropoint field in optical quantum communication. Specifically,the relationship between Bell-state distinguishability and the number of sets of zeropoint modesthat take part in the experiment is analysed in terms of the coupling between the phases of thedifferent fields involved and the subtraction of the zeropoint intensity at the detectors. Additionally,the connection between the compatibility theorem in quantum cryptography and zeropoint fieldis stressed.