Gao, Shan (2011) Interpreting Quantum Mechanics in Terms of Random Discontinuous Motion of Particles. [Preprint]

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Abstract

This thesis is an attempt to reconstruct the conceptual foundations of quantum mechanics. First, we argue that the wave function in quantum mechanics is a description of random discontinuous motion of particles, and the modulus square of the wave function gives the probability density of the particles being in certain locations in space. Next, we show that the linear non-relativistic evolution of the wave function of an isolated system obeys the free Schrödinger equation due to the requirements of spacetime translation invariance and relativistic invariance. Thirdly, we argue that the random discontinuous motion of particles may lead to a stochastic, nonlinear collapse evolution of the wave function. A discrete model of energy-conserved wavefunction collapse is proposed and shown to be consistent with existing experiments and our macroscopic experience. In addition, we also give a critical analysis of the de Broglie-Bohm theory, the many-worlds interpretation and other dynamical collapse theories, and briefly discuss the issue of unifying quantum mechanics and special relativity.

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Item Type:	Preprint
Creators:	Creators Email ORCID Gao, Shan sgao7319@uni.sydney.edu.au
Additional Information:	PhD thesis
Keywords:	wave function, Schrödinger's equation, wavefunction collapse, random discontinuous motion of particles, de Broglie-Bohm theory, many-worlds interpretation, dynamical collapse theories
Subjects:	General Issues > Determinism/Indeterminism General Issues > Philosophers of Science Specific Sciences > Physics > Quantum Mechanics
Depositing User:	Dr. Shan Gao
Date Deposited:	07 Jan 2012 12:59
Last Modified:	07 Jan 2012 12:59
Item ID:	8987
Subjects:	General Issues > Determinism/Indeterminism General Issues > Philosophers of Science Specific Sciences > Physics > Quantum Mechanics
Date:	3 November 2011
URI:	https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/id/eprint/8987

Available Versions of this Item

• Interpreting Quantum Mechanics in Terms of Random Discontinuous Motion of Particles. (deposited 04 Nov 2011 14:26)
  • Interpreting Quantum Mechanics in Terms of Random Discontinuous Motion of Particles. (deposited 20 Mar 2012 20:58)
    • Interpreting Quantum Mechanics in Terms of Random Discontinuous Motion of Particles. (deposited 25 Feb 2013 13:28)
  • Interpreting Quantum Mechanics in Terms of Random Discontinuous Motion of Particles. (deposited 07 Jan 2012 12:59) [Currently Displayed]

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