Single-slit and two-slit interferometer measurements of electrons are analyzed within the realistic model of particle propagation. In a step by step procedure we show that all current models of interference are essentially non-local and demonstrate that the treatment of the quantum theory of motion is the simplest model for the scalar problem. In particular we give a novel interpretation of the quantum potential Q, which should be regarded as a non-classical and essentially statistical term describing the changes of the quantum ensemble due to a change of the physical environment.
Single-slit and two-slit interferometer measurements of electrons are analyzed within the realistic model of particle propagation. In a step by step procedure we show that all current models of interference are essentially non-local and demonstrate that the treatment of the quantum theory of motion is the simplest model for the scalar problem. In particular we give a novel interpretation of the quantum potential Q, which should be regarded as a non-classical and essentially statistical term describing the changes of the quantum ensemble due to a change of the physical environment.
We develop an approach to quantum interference phenomenon which makes the characteristics of the problem more conspicuous and brings out more physical concepts. We do this by discussing the idea of deterministic quantum experiments using the Heisenberg picture. The variables that are relevant for describing interference are modular variables. These variables obey non-local equations of motion and can be used to follow the time evolution of a system without disturbing it. We present a physical explanation for the different behaviors of a single particle when the distant slit is open or closed: instead of having a quantum wave that passes through all slits, we have a localized particle with non-local interactions with the other slit(s). While the Heisenberg picture and the Schrodinger pictures are equivalent formulations of quantum mechanics, nevertheless, the results discussed here support a new approach to quantum mechanics which has led to new insights, new intuitions, new experiments, and even the possibility of new devices that were missed from the old perspective.
Starting with a down to earth interpretation of quantum mechanics for a free particle, the disappearance and reappearance of interference in the 2 slit problem with a detector behind one are treated in detail. A partial interpretation of quantum theory is employed which is simple, emphasizing description, yet adequate for addressing the present problem. Given that the eigenvalue equation is essential to predict a free particle's probability of collision, it is argued that there is equal need for a realistic theory to describe its possible motion. Feynman's point-to-point space-time wave packet is put forth and used as the appropriate description of the field-free motion between collisions. For a particle in a conventional 2-slit experiment with attempted detection behind one, the disappearance of interference is explained - both when the detection succeeds and when it doesn't. Also a definite prediction is made, when the inter-slit distance is reduced, of where the first signs of interference should appear on the detection screen.
A recently proposed model of the Dirac electron, which has been shown to describe several observed properties of the particle correctly, is in the present paper shown to be also able to explain quantum interference by classical probabilities. According to this model, the electron is not point-like, but rather an “entity with structure”, formed by a fast periodic motion of a “light-like object”, whose momentum (p) causes the angular momentum responsible for the spin, and whose energy (E = pc) is equal to the energy of the electron, mc2. A qualitative description of the model is given, together with the quantitative formulae that allow to discuss interference. Applied to the experimental situation of the “two-slit” experiment, the formulae yield the same time dependence of the detection probability as the quantum mechanical treatment, and hence the same interference pattern. In contrast to quantum mechanics, the pattern is due to “particle interference” rather than to “wave interference”. No wave-particle paradox arises. The merits of the model are summarized, and its physical content discussed.
The two-slit interference experiment is usually adopted to discuss the superposition principle applied to radiation and to show the peculiar wave behaviour of material particles. Diffraction and interference of electrons have been demonstrated using, as interferometry devices, a hole, a slit, double hole, two-slits, an electrostatic biprism etc. A number of books, short movies and lectures on the web try to popularize the mysterious behaviour of electrons on the basis of Feynman thought experiment which consists of a Young two-hole interferometer equipped with a detector to reveal single electrons. A short review is reported regarding, i) the pioneering attempts carried out to demonstrate that interference patterns could be obtained with single electrons through an interferometer and, ii) recent experiments, which can be considered as the realization of the thought electron interference experiments adopted by Einstein-Bohr and subsequently by Feynman to discuss key features of quantum physics.
The thesis offers an innovative analysis of quantum mechanics. Firstly, it clearly expounds the characteristics of quantum mechanics in measurement and other aspects, and proposes seven criteria for judging scientific nature. Then, it points out that there are some key problems with the orthodox assumptions of quantum mechanics, such as unclear physical mechanisms, lack of rigorous logic, difficulty in falsification, and incomplete main considerations.Regarding the double-slit interference experiment, the thesis conducts a comprehensive derivation and demonstration, proposing a unique interpretation. The traditional view holds that the interference is caused by the wave nature of electrons, while this thesis suggests that it is the periodic fluctuating Coulomb force field in the double-slit slits. A large number of electrons interact with it, undergo regular deflection to form a probability distribution, and then superimpose to produce interference fringes. This interpretation challenges the traditional cognition of the wave nature of microscopic particles in quantum mechanics, prompting us to re-think the basic concepts and experimental interpretations of quantum mechanics from the new perspective of the Coulomb force field, providing new ideas and directions for the study of quantum mechanics.