Quantum Clustering

Abstract

We propose a novel clustering method that is based on physical intuition derived from quantum mechanics. Starting with given data points, we construct a scale-space probability function. Viewing the latter as the lowest eigenstate of a Schrodinger equation, we use simple analytic operations to derive a potential function whose minima determine cluster centers. The method has one parameter, determining the scale over which cluster structures are searched. We demonstrate it on data analyzed in two dimensions (chosen from the eigenvectors of the correlation matrix). The method is applicable in higher dimensions by limiting the evaluation of the Schrodinger potential to the locations of data points. In this case the method may be formulated in terms of distances between data points.