Physics – Quantum Physics
Scientific paper
1997-08-14
Phys.Rev. A57 (1998) 1604
Physics
Quantum Physics
Minor revisions to bring into conformity with published version. Revtex 29 pages including 1 page with figures
Scientific paper
10.1103/PhysRevA.57.1604
In consistent history quantum theory, a description of the time development of a quantum system requires choosing a framework or consistent family, and then calculating probabilities for the different histories which it contains. It is argued that the framework is chosen by the physicist constructing a description of a quantum system on the basis of questions he wishes to address, in a manner analogous to choosing a coarse graining of the phase space in classical statistical mechanics. The choice of framework is not determined by some law of nature, though it is limited by quantum incompatibility, a concept which is discussed using a two-dimensional Hilbert space (spin half particle). Thus certain questions of physical interest can only be addressed using frameworks in which they make (quantum mechanical) sense. The physicist's choice does not influence reality, nor does the presence of choices render the theory subjective. On the contrary, predictions of the theory can, in principle, be verified by experimental measurements. These considerations are used to address various criticisms and possible misunderstandings of the consistent history approach, including its predictive power, whether it requires a new logic, whether it can be interpreted realistically, the nature of ``quasiclassicality'', and the possibility of ``contrary'' inferences.
Griffiths Robert B.
No associations
LandOfFree
Choice of Consistent Family, and Quantum Incompatibility does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.
If you have personal experience with Choice of Consistent Family, and Quantum Incompatibility, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Choice of Consistent Family, and Quantum Incompatibility will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-309390