Quantum interference without quantum mechanics

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates that quantum interference can be explained using a classical probability model based on a new electron structure, challenging the necessity of quantum mechanics for such phenomena.

Contribution

It introduces a classical probability model of the electron that reproduces quantum interference patterns without relying on quantum mechanics.

Findings

The model reproduces interference patterns identical to quantum predictions.

Electron modeled as a periodic entity with a dynamic substructure.

Classical probabilities suffice to explain quantum interference.

Abstract

A recently proposed model of the Dirac electron, which describes observed properties of the particle correctly, is in the present paper shown to be also able to explain quantum interference by classical probabilities. According to this model, the electron is not point-like, but rather an "entity" formed by a fast periodic motion of a quantum whose energy is equal to the rest energy of the electron. Only after a time span equal to the period of that periodic motion the "entity" becomes the electron, with its properties, mass, spin, charge, etc.. When in motion with respect to the observer, the "dynamic substructure" of the electron described in this way, leads to a certain time structure of its detection probability, if the space-time point of detection is taken as the space-time point of the quantum. In the typical "two slit" experimental situation, this leads to a periodic detection probability with a frequency of twice the De Broglie frequency. This result is identical to the result obtained by the quantum mechanical description of the moving electron by the free particle wave function. The different interpretations of the established interference pattern, inherent in the two alternative theoretical descriptions is outlined, and the relation between the two descriptions discussed. It is concluded that quantum interference is well explained with classical probabilities, without quantum mechanics and without paradoxes. In view of the demonstrated merits of the model on the one hand, and the new aspects regarding the established theories it implies on the other, a more thorough investigation of its role in relation to relativistic quantum mechanics, and to quantum field theory is suggested. Some of the interesting aspects are summarized.