Superselection rules in quantum theory: Part I. A new proposal for state restriction violation

Abstract

It is argued that preparation of a quantum state characterized by density operator ρ not commuting with a superselection operatorQ does not by itself constitute an instance of superselection rule violation. It would, however, be an instance of state restriction violation. It is held that superselection rule violation is only possible with simultaneous observable and state restriction violations. It is shown that it is a priori conceivable to subdivide an ensemble whose ρ satisfies[ρ, Q] = 0 into subensembles whose density operators violate the state restrictions. The dynamics of the subdivision process is not considered.