# Entropic Mechanics: towards a stochastic description of quantum mechanics

## TL;DR

This paper introduces a stochastic framework for quantum mechanics using a Markov process constrained by hidden quantities, deriving a Schrödinger equation under specific symmetry and equilibrium conditions.

## Contribution

It proposes a novel approach linking stochastic processes with quantum mechanics through entropy principles and variational methods, highlighting conditions for Schrödinger equation emergence.

## Key findings

- Stochastic dynamics can be described by a Schrödinger equation.
- Symmetry and detailed balance are key for the derivation.
- Large number of conserved quantities facilitates the approach.

## Abstract

We consider a stochastic process which is (a) described by a continuous-time Markov chain on only short time-scales and (b) constrained to conserve a number of hidden quantities on long time-scales. We assume that the transition matrix of the Markov chain is given and the conserved quantities are known to exist, but not explicitly given. To study the stochastic dynamics we propose to use the principle of stationary entropy production. Then the problem can be transformed into a variational problem for a suitably defined action and with time-dependent Lagrange multipliers. We show that the stochastic dynamics can be described by a Schrodinger equation, with Lagrange multipliers playing the role of phases, whenever (a) the transition matrix is symmetric or the detailed balance condition is satisfied, (b) the system is not too far from the equilibrium and (c) the number of the conserved quantities is large.