Conceptualizing quantum mechanics in pilot-wave theory

Andréa Oldofredi

Harvey R. Brown, Andrew Elby, Robert Weingard

Yuri Shtanov

The de Broglie-Bohm (pilot wave) formulation of quantum theory appears to be free from the conceptual problems specific to quantum mechanics (problem of measurement) and to quantum cosmology (problem of time). We further study the extension of this formulation to the case of gravity and demonstrate that the foliation of spacetime by spacelike hypersurfaces obtained during the solution of the quantum problem turns out to be distinguished in general. This means that quantum pilot wave dynamics is not invariant with respect to an arbitrary change of foliation, or, in other terms, that quantum nonlocality takes place. We also discuss the general structure of a realistic pilot wave theory that could describe the universe.

John W. M. Bush, Valeri Frumkin, Pedro J. Sáenz

We present a number of fresh perspectives on pilot-wave hydrodynamics, the field initiated in 2005 by Couder and Fort's discovery that millimetric droplets self-propelling along the surface of a vibrating bath can capture certain features of quantum systems. A recurring theme will be that pilot-wave hydrodynamics furnishes a classical framework for reproducing many quantum phenomena and allows one to rationalize such phenomena mechanistically, from a local realist perspective, obviating the need to appeal to quantum nonlocality. The distinction is drawn between hydrodynamic pilot-wave theory and its quantum counterparts, Bohmian mechanics, the Bohm–Vigier stochastic pilot-wave theory, and de Broglie's theory of the double-solution. Each of these quantum predecessors provide a valuable touchstone as we take the physical picture engendered in the walking droplets and extend it into the quantum realm via theoretical modeling. Emphasis is given to recent developments in the field, both experimental and conceptual, and to forecasting potentially fruitful new directions.

Antony Valentini

Aloysius F. Kracklauer

An intuitive, generic, physical model, or conceptual paradigm for pilot wave steerage of particle beams based on Stochastic Electrodynamics is presented. The utility of this model for understanding the Pauli Exclusion Principle is briefly considered, and a possible experimental verification for the underlying concepts is proposed. \\[7mm] Key words: Quantum Mechanics, Pilot Wave, Pauli Exclusion Principle, Stochastic Electrodynamics