Quantum Markov chains associated with open quantum random walks

Abstract: In this paper we construct (nonhomogeneous) quantum Markov chains associated with open quantum random walks. The quantum Markov chain, like the classical Markov chain, is a fundamental tool for the investigation of the basic properties such as reducibility/irreducibility, recurrence/transience, accessibility, ergodicity, etc, of the underlying dynamics. Here we focus on the discussion of the reducibility and irreducibility of open quantum random walks via the corresponding quantum Markov chains. Particularly we show that the concept of reducibility/irreducibility of open quantum random walks in this approach is equivalent to the one previously done by Carbone and Pautrat. We provide with some examples. We will see also that the classical Markov chains can be reconstructed as quantum Markov chains.