Evaluating the advantage of adaptive strategies for quantum channel distinguishability

Recently, the resource theory of asymmetric distinguishability for quantum strategies was introduced by Wang et al. [Phys. Rev. Research 1, 033169 (2019).]. The fundamental objects in the resource theory are pairs of quantum strategies, which are generalizations of quantum channels that provide a framework to describe an arbitrary quantum interaction. In the present paper we provide semidefinite program characterizations of the one-shot operational quantities in this resource theory. We then apply these semidefinite programs to study the advantage conferred by adaptive strategies in discrimination and distinguishability distillation of generalized amplitude damping channels. We find that there are significant gaps between what can be accomplished with an adaptive strategy versus a nonadaptive strategy.

Automated summary

This paper introduces the resource theory of asymmetric distinguishability for quantum strategies and provides semidefinite program characterizations of the one-shot operational quantities in this theory. The study finds significant gaps between the advantage conferred by adaptive strategies versus nonadaptive strategies in discrimination and distinguishability distillation of generalized amplitude damping channels.