The Wave Function and Its Interpretation

Michel Gondran, Alexandre Gondran

We propose an interpretative framework for quantum mechanics corresponding to the specifications of Louis de Broglie's double-solution theory. The principle is to decompose the evolution of a quantum system into two wave functions: an external wave function corresponding to the evolution of its center of mass and an internal wave function corresponding to the evolution of its internal variables in the center-of-mass system. Mathematical decomposition is only possible in certain cases because there are many interactions linking these two parts. In addition, these two wave functions will have different meanings and interpretations. The external wave function "pilots" the center of mass of the quantum system: it corresponds to the Broglie pilot wave. When the Planck constant tends to zero, it results mathematically from the convergence of the square of the module and the phase of the external wave function to a density and a classical action verifying the Hamilton-Jacobi statistical equations. This interpretation explains all the measurement results, namely those yielded by interference, spin measurement (Stern and Gerlach) and non-locality (EPR-B) experiments. For the internal wave function, several interpretations are possible : the one of the pilot wave can be applied in cascade to the internal wave function. However, the interpretation proposed by Erwin Schr{ö}dinger at the Solvay Congress in 1927 and restricted to the internal wave function is also possible. For Schr{ö}dinger, the particles are extended and the square of the module of the (internal) wave function of an electron corresponds to the density of its charge in space. We present many arguments in favour of this interpretation, which like the pilot wave interpretation is realistic and deterministic. Finally, we will see that this double interpretation serves as a frame of reference by which to better understand the debates on the interpretation of quantum mechanics and to review the relationships between gravity and quantum mechanics.

K. T. Hecht

Michel Gondran, Alexandre Gondran, Camille Noûs

We propose an interpretative framework for quantum mechanics inspired by Louis de Broglie's double-solution theory. The principle is to decompose the evolution of a quantum system into two wave functions: an external wave function corresponding to the evolution of its center of mass along with other macroscopic degrees of freedom, and an internal wave function corresponding to the evolution of its internal variables in the center-of-mass system. These two wave functions will have different meanings and interpretations.The external wave function ``pilots'' the center of mass of the quantum system: it corresponds to the de Broglie pilot wave. For the internal wave function, we argue in favor of the interpretation proposed by Erwin Schrödinger at the Solvay Congress in 1927: the particles are extended and the square of the module of the (internal) wave function of an electron corresponds to the density of its charge in space.

J. Lehners

Gordon Dunwell Hoyt

Alyssa Ney

Abstract This chapter considers and responds to criticism that wave function realism is only plausible as an approach to the interpretation of nonrelativistic quantum mechanics and not relativistic quantum theories and quantum field theories. This critique gains traction as wave function realism has until now been formulated and defended solely within the context of idealized, nonrelativistic quantum mechanics. The chapter considers five such arguments and responds to each. An important lesson is that wave function realists should only adopt the wave-function-in-configuration-space picture as part of an interpretation of an idealized nonrelativistic quantum mechanics. More generally, the space the wave function inhabits will vary as the quantum theory the wave function realist is developing an interpretation of varies. The chapter develops a sketch of what wave function realism looks like in one relativistic context. It then discusses the issue of the interpretation of quantum theories in the limit of physical theorizing.