On the existence of the "classical trajectories" of atoms in the Stern-Gerlach experiment

TL;DR

This paper critically examines the common assumption of classical atomic trajectories in the Stern-Gerlach experiment, using ab initio analysis to argue that such trajectories do not physically exist, challenging traditional interpretations.

Contribution

It provides a rigorous ab initio analysis that questions the existence of classical trajectories in the Stern-Gerlach experiment, suggesting a need to revise the conventional model.

Findings

Classical trajectories do not physically exist in the experiment.

The traditional model of the experiment requires substantial revision.

The analysis challenges the objective reality of atomic paths in quantum measurements.

Abstract

The widely accepted interpretation of the Stern-Gerlach experiment assumes the objective atomic trajectories (the "classical trajectories") in front of the screen. Following this interpretation, we perform an {\it ab initio} analysis of the experiment and conclude that the objective trajectories do not physically exist. The alternative to our conclusion is substantially to change the model of the experiment.