Understanding modified two-slit experiments using path markers
From MaRDI portal
Philosophy of mathematics (00A30) Diffraction, scattering (78A45) General and philosophical questions in quantum theory (81P05) Quantum coherence, entanglement, quantum correlations (81P40) Quantum control (81Q93) Coherent states (81R30) Correspondence, duality, holography (AdS/CFT, gauge/gravity, etc.) (81T35) Complementarity and equilibrium problems and variational inequalities (finite dimensions) (aspects of mathematical programming) (90C33)
Abstract: Some modified two-slit interference experiments were carried out showing an apparent paradox in wave-particle duality. In a typical such experiment, the screen, where the interference pattern is supposed to be formed, is replaced by a converging lens. The converging lens forms the images of the two slits at two spatially separated detectors. It was claimed that each of these two detectors give information about which slit a photon came from, even though they come from the region of interference. These experiments generated a lot of debate. The various refutations pointed out that the controversial claims involved some questionable assumptions. However the refutations were largely philosophical in nature, and one may like to substantiate those with arguments which are testable, at least in principle. Here such an experiment is theoretically analyzed by introducing path markers which are two orthogonal polarization states of the photon. Analyzing the polarization at the two detectors shows that the photons which give rise to interference, and reach a particular detector, always come from both the slits. This provides clarity in understanding such experiments by making use of testable quantum correlations.
Recommendations
- Bilocal current densities and mean trajectories in a Young interferometer with two Gaussian slits and two detectors
- Ascertaining complementary and incompatible quantum properties by means of double-slit experiments
- Two-slit experiment and wave-particle duality
- Ghost interference and quantum erasure
- Simulation of Afshar's double slit experiment
Cites work
- Afshar's experiment does not show a violation of complementarity
- Complementarity paradox solved: surprising consequences
- Critique of quantum optical experimental refutations of Bohr's principle of complementarity, of the Wootters-Zurek principle of complementarity, and of the particle-wave duality relation
- Logical analysis of the Bohr complementarity principle in Afshar's experiment under the NAFL interpretation
- No paradox in wave-particle duality
- Paradox in wave-particle duality
- Reply to comments of Steuernagel on the Afshar's experiment
- Simulation of Afshar's double slit experiment
- The Feynman lectures on physics. In 3 volumes. Based on the updated and revised translation by G. Altarelli, C. Chiuderi, E. Clementel, S. Focardi, S. Franchetti, L. Monari and G. Toraldo
- Why the Afshar experiment does not refute complementarity
This page was built for publication: Understanding modified two-slit experiments using path markers
Report a bug (only for logged in users!)Click here to report a bug for this page (MaRDI item Q6170710)
