Probable Inference and Quantum Mechanics
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY 82070 (United States)
In its current very successful interpretation the quantum theory is fundamentally statistical in nature. Although commonly viewed as a probability amplitude whose (complex) square is a probability, the wavefunction or state vector continues to defy consensus as to its exact meaning, primarily because it is not a physical observable. Rather than approach this problem directly, it is suggested that it is first necessary to clarify the precise role of probability theory in quantum mechanics, either as applied to, or as an intrinsic part of the quantum theory. When all is said and done the unsurprising conclusion is that quantum mechanics does not constitute a logic and probability unto itself, but adheres to the long-established rules of classical probability theory while providing a means within itself for calculating the relevant probabilities. In addition, the wavefunction is seen to be a description of the quantum state assigned by an observer based on definite information, such that the same state must be assigned by any other observer based on the same information, in much the same way that probabilities are assigned.
- OSTI ID:
- 21335885
- Journal Information:
- AIP Conference Proceedings, Vol. 1193, Issue 1; Conference: 29. international workshop on Bayesian inference and maximum entropy methods in science and engineering, Oxford, MS (United States), 5-10 Jul 2009; Other Information: DOI: 10.1063/1.3275651; (c) 2009 American Institute of Physics; Country of input: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA); ISSN 0094-243X
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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