Glafka 2004: some remarks on the role of complex numbers in quantum theory (Q857711)

Mathematics and physics have mostly been found to go hand in hand for a healthy construction of a useful quantum theory of nature. Rich and powerful techniques of complex analysis, in particular, have rendered yeoman service to many areas of modern physics including certain important aspects of quantum mechanics. The author has considered here in his interesting talk a few useful features regarding the issue as to the introduction of complex numbers into the formulation of quantum theory. The quantum world during the past about a century has been the field of extraordinary activities from theoretical physicists. However the various questions concerning the actual final form of an acceptable scheme is yet to emerge. The completeness problem stares at us still asking for a clear solution. In the introductory section, the Schrödinger equation is written as \[ J{\partial\over\partial t}{\psi_R\choose \psi_I}= \widehat H{\psi_R\choose\psi_I},\quad J= \begin{pmatrix} 0 & 1\\ -1 & 0\end{pmatrix} \] which is good. Symmetry requires quite naturally the complex numbers. In the second section the vital topic of geometric phases is discussed in detail. The Pancharatnam phase is brought in with explanation of a 5-step procedure for its determination. In the third section some consistent theories are elaborated upon and in the final part an axiomatic approach to evolve a scheme for the quantum is examined at length; here observables, probabilities and equivalence through two propositions are dealt with. In the final remarks the quantum logic, spinors and Penrose conjecture about relation between complex numbers in the quantum theory and light cone geometry are briefly looked at.