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Journal of Central South University(Social Science)

Four clues to the argument over interpretation of quantum mechanics

Cao Zhi

Published Jan 1, 2001• 0 citations
OpenAlex

Abstract

The argument about interpretation of quantum mechanics is questioned from two aspects of history and logic. Four noticeable clues are found as follows: wave nature and particle nature, reductionism and analogy, hidden variable and quantum potential, continuity and discontinuity. From different aspects, they outline the complex relation in the interpretation of quantum mechanics, disclosing the historical relationship among the arguments over interpretation of quantum mechanics, physics and the development of human knowledge.

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The argument about interpretation of quantum mechanics is questioned from two aspects of history and logic. Four noticeable clues are found as follows: wave nature and particle nature, reductionism and analogy, hidden variable and quantum potential, continuity and discontinuity. From different aspects, they outline the complex relation in the interpretation of quantum mechanics, disclosing the historical relationship among the arguments over interpretation of quantum mechanics, physics and the development of human knowledge.
A survey is made of the hitherto proposed answers to the following crucial questions arising in the physical interpretation of the mathematical formalism of wave mechanics: (I) What is the meaning of the dynamical variables and of their eigenvalues? (II) What is the meaning of the wave function? (III) What is the nature and origin of Heisenberg's uncertainty relations? (IV) What is the nature of the systems dealt with by wave mechanics? Taking into account the interpretations that have been proposed in the last few years, a surprisingly large number of answers is found. The present situation in quantum mechanics is compared with similar crises in the past history of physics. The mere multiplicity of consistent interpretations of quantum mechanics is regarded as a warning against the dogmatic adherence to any one of them, to the exclusion of new possibilities.
Many theoretical predictions derived from quantum mechanics have been confirmed experimentally during the last 80 years. However, interpretative aspects have long been subject to debate. Among them, the question of the existence of hidden variables is still open. We review these questions, paying special attention to historical aspects, and argue that one may definitively exclude local realism on the basis of present experimental outcomes. Other interpretations of Quantum Mechanics are nevertheless not excluded.
Many theoretical predictions derived from quantum mechanics have been confirmed experimentally for the last 80 years.However, interpretative aspects have long been subject to debate.Among them, the question of the existence of hidden variables is still open.We review these questions, paying special attention to historical aspects, and argue that one may definitively exclude local realism based on the present experimental outcomes.Nevertheless other interpretations of Quantum Mechanics are not excluded.
This paper deals with the development of, and the current discussion about, the interpretation of quantum mechanics. The following topics are discussed: 1. The Copenhagen Interpretation, 2. Formal Problems of Quantum Mechanics, 3. Process of Measurement and the Equation of Motion, 4. Macroscopic Level of Description, 5. Search for Hidden Variables, 6. The Notion of “Reality” and Epistemology of Quantum Mechanics, 7. Quantum Mechanics and the Explanation of Life. The Bohr-Einstein dialogue on the validity of the quantum mechanical description of physical reality lasted over two decades. Since the early nineteen fifties, Wiper has provided much of the point and counterpoint of the continuing discussion on the interpretation and epistemology of quantum mechanics. We have explored Wiper's views in some detail against the background of historical development and current debate.
This review is devoted to a discussion of the interpretation of quantum mechanics. The heuristic role and limitations of the principle of observability and of operationalism are discussed. It is shown that the probabilistic approach to quantum mechanics is essential as a way of reconciling the conflicting concepts of particle and wave. The reason why the reduction of the wave packet is not a physical process, but a logical act is explained. The discussion of the paradoxes of quantum mechanics covers many well known examples and includes the Aharonov-Bohm effect and interference between two independent laser beams. It is suggested that the causality principle does not reduce to determinism, but has certain other manifestations too. This is illustrated by the fact that Newtonian mechanics was at one time considered as abstract and impenetrable, in contrast to the 'natural', but eventually fruitless mechanics of Descartes. It is shown that a classical foundation cannot be provided for quantum mechanics, i.e., it is impossible to introduce hidden variables into quantum mechanics. Mathematical manipulation is reduced to the essential minimum, and many examples are provided to illustrate the discussion. Outstanding contributors to physics are extensively quoted. The review is intended for readers with higher education in both the natural sciences and the humanities, who are interested in conceptual problems in modern science.