Decoherence and wave function collapse

TL;DR

This paper reexamines the compatibility of wave function collapse with quantum mechanics, proposing an environment-based interpretation that links decoherence and collapse through environmental interactions, consistent with quantum non-separability.

Contribution

It introduces a novel interpretation of environment that unifies decoherence and wave function collapse, emphasizing the role of measurement apparatus organization.

Findings

Collapse can result from environmental interactions similar to decoherence

The approach is consistent with quantum non-separability

Provides a unified interpretation of decoherence and collapse

Abstract

The possibility of consistency between the basic quantum principles of quantum mechanics and wave function collapse is reexamined. A specific interpretation of environment is proposed for this aim and applied to decoherence. When the organization of a measuring apparatus is taken into account, this approach leads also to an interpretation of wave function collapse, which would result in principle from the same interactions with environment as decoherence. This proposal is shown consistent with the non-separable character of quantum mechanics.