Theoretical investigation of the relations between pointer-induced quantum decoherence and the weak-to-strong measurement transition

This paper delves into the crucial aspects of pointer-induced quantum decoherence and the transition between von Neumann's projective strong measurement and Aharonov's weak measurement. Both phenomena significantly impact the dynamical understanding of quantum measurement processes. Specifically, we focus on the interplay between quantum decoherence and the transition from weak to strong measurement by deducing and comparing the quantum decoherence and weak-to-strong measurement transition factors within a general model and using the well-known Stern-Gerlach experiment as an illustrative example. Our findings reveal that both phenomena can be effectively characterized by a universal factor intricately linked to the coupling between the measured system and the pointer. The analysis presented in our current work can clarify the mechanism behind the relations of pointer-induced quantum decoherence to the weak measurement and weak-to-strong measurement transition.