The unperformed experiment as an act of annihilation

TL;DR

This paper explores the philosophical and conceptual implications of quantum experiments, proposing a delayed choice experiment where not detecting a particle is akin to its annihilation, challenging classical physics assumptions.

Contribution

It introduces a novel delayed choice experiment framework that considers non-detection as an act of particle annihilation, expanding interpretations of quantum measurement.

Findings

Particles may be considered annihilated if not detected after passing the preparation stage

The experiment challenges classical notions of particle detection and existence

Non-detection can be interpreted as an active quantum event

Abstract

Here, we accept the results of quantum experiments at face value and we make no apology for the failure of classical physics. Just as Wheeler has called particle detection an "act of creation", we suggest that, in some circumstances, not detecting the particle might be considered an "act of annihilation". We propose a delayed choice experiment in which we decide to interrupt an experiment after the particle has supposedly passed through the preparation apparatus and is on the verge of being detected. Even with the detection device in place, the particle is nowhere to be found.