Quantized Detector Networks
The Theory of Observation

Explores how the contextual nature of empirical truth and the laws of observation affect our understanding of quantum physics.

George Jaroszkiewicz (Author)

9781009401456, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 27 July 2023

390 pages
25 x 17.5 x 2.5 cm, 0.847 kg

Scientists have been debating the meaning of quantum mechanics for more than a century. This book for graduate students and researchers gets to the root of the problem: how the contextual nature of empirical truth and the laws of observation impact on our understanding of quantum physics. Bridging the gap between non-relativistic quantum mechanics and quantum field theory, this novel approach to quantum mechanics extends the standard formalism to cover the observer and their apparatus. The author demystifies some of the aspects of quantum mechanics that have traditionally been regarded as extraordinary, such as wave-particle duality and quantum superposition, emphasizing the scientific principles rather than the mathematical modelling. Including key experiments and worked examples throughout, the author encourages the reader to focus on empirically sound concepts and avoid metaphysical speculation. Originally released in 2017, this title has been reissued as an Open Access publication on Cambridge Core.

Preface
Acronyms
1. Introduction
2. Questions and answers
3. Classical bits
4. Quantum bits
5. Classical and quantum registers
6. Classical register mechanics
7. Quantum register dynamics
8. Partial observations
9. Mixed states and POVMs
10. Double-slit experiments
11. Modules
12. Computerization and computer algebra
13. Interferometers
14. Quantum eraser experiments
15. Particle decays
16. Non-locality
17. Bell inequalities
18. Change and persistence
19. Temporal correlations
20. The Franson experiment
21. Self-intervening networks
22. Separability and entanglement
23. Causal sets
24. Oscillators
25. Dynamical theory of observation
26. Conclusions
Appendix
Index.

Subject Areas: Statistical physics [PHS]