Skip to content
aiqbench takeQuantum Computing

aiqbench analysis

This is a narrow mathematical result in quantum information theory: a 2-dimensional counterexample showing that a proposed optimality condition for trace-distance state transformation does not hold in general. It matters mainly to researchers working on quantum channel optimization and resource theories, since the Coutts et al. dual-certificate conjecture was a candidate tool for characterizing optimal solutions. The work corrects a claim rather than introducing a new capability, so its impact is on theory, not on near-term quantum hardware or applications.
Source coveringarXiv

A Counterexample to the Optimality Conjecture in Convex Quantum Channel Optimization

arXiv1 min read

arXiv:2512.22863v3 Announce Type: replace Abstract: This paper presents a counterexample to the optimality conjecture for the trace distance based optimal state transformation problem proposed by Coutts et al. [Quantum 5, 448 (2021)]. The conjecture posits that for the trace distance based optimal state transformation problem, applying the sign function to the error matrix uniquely determines a dual certificate for every optimal solution. By constructing a counterexample in 2-dimensional Hilbert spaces, we disprove this conjecture.

Abstract:This paper presents a counterexample to the optimality conjecture for the trace distance based optimal state transformation problem proposed by Coutts et al. [Quantum 5, 448 (2021)]. The conjecture posits that for the trace distance based optimal state transformation problem, applying the sign function to the error matrix uniquely determines a dual certificate for every optimal solution. By constructing a counterexample in 2-dimensional Hilbert spaces, we disprove this conjecture.

Quantum Physics (quant-ph); Optimization and Control (math.OC)

arXiv:2512.22863 [quant-ph]

(or arXiv:2512.22863v3 [quant-ph] for this version)

https://doi.org/10.48550/arXiv.2512.22863 Focus to learn more arXiv-issued DOI via DataCite

arXivLabs is a framework that allows collaborators to develop and share new arXiv features directly on our website.

Both individuals and organizations that work with arXivLabs have embraced and accepted our values of openness, community, excellence, and user data privacy. arXiv is committed to these values and only works with partners that adhere to them.

Have an idea for a project that will add value for arXiv's community? Learn more about arXivLabs.

Full text under the publisher's open licence · 165 words

Related coverage