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Open Quantum Systems Decoherence

Biophysics and Quantum Limitation of Photoreceptive Processes

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Authors: Laura Barsanti, Paolo Gualtieri

Year

2023

Paper ID

13745

Status

Peer-reviewed

Abstract Read

~2 min

Abstract Words

109

Citations

1

Abstract

This entry paper is an attempt to explain how the discrete nature of light (energy discreteness in the form of photons) constrains the light detection process all along the evolutionary path, in the not-fully-understood photoreceptive systems of unicellular microorganisms (nonimaging systems) and in the complex and well-known visual system of higher organisms (imaging systems). All these systems are perfect examples of the interplay between physics and biology, i.e., they are the perfect topic of research for biophysicists. The paper describes how photoreceptive and visual systems achieve the goal of photon counting, which information is conveyed by a finite number of photons, and which noise factors limit light-detecting processes.

Why This Paper Matters

  • This paper contributes to the Open Quantum Systems & Decoherence research area in the Quantum Articles archive.
  • It adds a 2023 reference point for readers tracking recent quantum research.
  • This entry paper is an attempt to explain how the discrete nature of light (energy discreteness in the form of photons) constrains the light detection process all along the...

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References & Citation Signals

[1] DOI https://doi.org/10.3390/encyclopedia4010003 [2] Publisher https://doi.org/10.3390/encyclopedia4010003

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Current Paper #13745

External citation index: OpenAlex citation signal • updated 2026-10-31 23:24:20

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