Von Neumann Entropy

In quantum statistical mechanics, von Neumann entropy, named after John von Neumann, is the extension of classical entropy concepts to the field of quantum mechanics. For a quantum-mechanical system described by a density matrix ρ, the von Neumann entropy is

where tr denotes the trace. If ρ is written in terms of its eigenvectors |1〉, |2〉, |3〉, ... as

then the von Neumann entropy is

In this form, S can be seen to be related to the Shannon entropy.

Read more about Von Neumann Entropy:  Background, Definition, Properties, Uses

Famous quotes containing the words von, neumann and/or entropy:

    Music is either sacred or secular. The sacred agrees with its dignity, and here has its greatest effect on life, an effect that remains the same through all ages and epochs. Secular music should be cheerful throughout.
    —Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe (1749–1832)

    It means there are times when a mere scientist has gone as far as he can. When he must pause and observe respectfully while something infinitely greater assumes control.
    —Kurt Neumann (1906–1958)

    Just as the constant increase of entropy is the basic law of the universe, so it is the basic law of life to be ever more highly structured and to struggle against entropy.
    Václav Havel (b. 1936)