Validating and controlling quantum enhancement against noise by the motion of a qubit

Abstract

Experimental validation and control of quantum traits for an open quantum system are important for any quantum information purpose. We consider a traveling atom qubit as a quantum memory with adjustable velocity inside a leaky cavity, adopting a quantum witness as a figure of merit for quantumness assessment. We show that this model constitutes an inherent physical instance where the quantum witness does not work properly if not suitably optimized. We then supply the optimal intermediate blind measurements which make the quantum witness a faithful tester of quantum coherence. We thus find that larger velocities protect quantumness against noise, leading to a lifetime extension of hybrid qubit-photon entanglement and to higher phase estimation precision. Control of qubit motion thus reveals itself as a quantum enhancer.