Broka, Chris A. (2023) Brains as Quantum Mechanical Systems - A New Model. [Preprint]

	Text BQM4.tex Download (19kB)
Preview	Text BQM4.pdf Download (211kB) | Preview

Abstract

We consider the possibility that the brain functions somewhat in the manner of a quantum mechanical system. The processes that
instantiate its consciousness – the physical correlates of consciousness – are suggested to be partly quantum mechanical in nature
rather than entirely classical. This idea is by no means new. But specific physical models are hard to come by. We begin by
approximating a synapse as a small, parallel-plate capacitor. We find that the classical electromagnetic energy stored in such a
synapse corresponds closely to the spacing of energy levels we would obtain were the capacitor to be treated as a quantum
mechanical system. Intrigued by this surprising observation, we propose a new model of the brain as a partially quantum mechanical
system. Its potential evolutionary benefits are discussed briefly.

---

Export/Citation:

EndNote | BibTeX | Dublin Core | ASCII/Text Citation (Chicago) | HTML Citation | OpenURL

Social Networking:

Share |

---

Item Type:	Preprint
Creators:	Creators Email ORCID Broka, Chris A. chris.broka@gmail.com
Keywords:	Keywords: Brains and Quantum Mechanics, Quantum Measurements, von Neumann-Wigner Interpretation, Synapses.
Subjects:	General Issues > Laws of Nature Specific Sciences > Physics Specific Sciences > Physics > Quantum Mechanics
Depositing User:	dr. chris broka
Date Deposited:	03 Jun 2023 12:03
Last Modified:	03 Jun 2023 12:03
Item ID:	22180
Subjects:	General Issues > Laws of Nature Specific Sciences > Physics Specific Sciences > Physics > Quantum Mechanics
Date:	5 June 2023
URI:	https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/id/eprint/22180

Available Versions of this Item

• Brains as Quantum Mechanical Systems - A New Model. (deposited 22 Mar 2023 13:02)
  • Brains as Quantum Mechanical Systems - A New Model. (deposited 04 Apr 2023 18:27)
    • Brains as Quantum Mechanical Systems - A New Model. (deposited 03 Jun 2023 12:03) [Currently Displayed]

Monthly Views for the past 3 years

Monthly Downloads for the past 3 years

Plum Analytics

Actions (login required)

View Item