We propose a general measure of nonclassical correlations for bipartite systems based on generalized entropic functions and majorization properties. Defined as the minimum information loss due to a local measurement, in the case of pure states it reduces to the generalized entanglement entropy, i.e., the generalized entropy of the reduced state. However, in the case of mixed states it can be nonzero in separable states, vanishing just for states diagonal in a general product basis, like the quantum discord. Simple quadratic measures of quantum correlations arise as a particular case of the present formalism. The minimum information loss due to a joint local measurement is also discussed. The evaluation of these measures in simple relevant cases is as well provided, together with comparison with the corresponding entanglement monotones.

• Received 21 September 2010

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevA.82.052342