Relativistic quantum clocks

TL;DR

This paper explores the differences between quantum theory and relativity in the context of time measurement, proposing a semiclassical clock model that bridges both theories and discussing potential experimental tests.

Contribution

It introduces a semiclassical clock model combining quantum and relativistic elements and discusses its generalization and experimental testing in curved spacetime.

Findings

Review of flat spacetime clock model results

Discussion on extending the model to curved spacetime

Proposal for experimental testing of the model

Abstract

The conflict between quantum theory and the theory of relativity is exemplified in their treatment of time. We examine the ways in which their conceptions differ, and describe a semiclassical clock model combining elements of both theories. The results obtained with this clock model in flat spacetime are reviewed, and the problem of generalizing the model to curved spacetime is discussed, before briefly describing an experimental setup which could be used to test of the model. Taking an operationalist view, where time is that which is measured by a clock, we discuss the conclusions that can be drawn from these results, and what clues they contain for a full quantum relativistic theory of time.