Optical realization of one-dimensional generalized split-step quantum walks

Abstract: Quantum walks are more than tools for building quantum algorithms. They have been used effectively to model and simulate quantum dynamics in many complex physical processes. Particularly, a variant of discrete-time quantum walk known as split-step quantum walk is closely related to Dirac cellular automata and topological insulators whose realizations rely on position-dependent control of evolution operators. Owing to the ease of manipulating multiple degrees of freedom of photons, we provide an optical setup of split-step operators which in combination with position-dependent coin (PDC) operation can accomplish a table-top setup of generalized split-step walks. Also, we propose an optical implementation for PDC operation that allows, for instance, to realize electric quantum walks, control localization dynamics, and emulate space-time curvature effects. In addition, we propose a setup to realize {\it any} $t$-step split-step quantum walk involving 2 $J$-plates, 2 variable waveplates, a half-waveplate, an optical switch, and an optical delay line.