Hidden variable theory for non-relativistic QED: the critical role of selection rules

TL;DR

This paper proposes a hidden variable theory for non-relativistic QED that incorporates a novel selection rule, allowing a deterministic and logical description of quantum phenomena without conflicting with standard quantum mechanics.

Contribution

It introduces a new selection rule extending the Consistent Histories approach, enabling a logical hidden variable model compatible with quantum theory and describing individual quantum events.

Findings

Successfully describes quantum jumps and classical trajectories

Resolves issues with joint probability and measurement contextuality

Maintains consistency with quantum equations and operator relations

Abstract

Quantum theory, despite its remarkable success, struggles to represent certain experimental data, particularly those involving integer functions and deterministic relations between quantum jumps. We address this limitation by proposing a hidden variable theory compatible with non-relativistic quantum electrodynamics (QED). Our approach introduces logical variables to describe propositions about the occupation of stationary states, based on three key assumptions: (i) the probabilities of propositions are predictable by quantum theory, (ii) the truth values of propositions conform to Boolean logic, and (iii) propositions satisfy a novel selection rule: ${\rm{Tr}}[\hat{K}(t)\hat{\rho}\hat{K}^{\dagger}(t)]={\rm{Tr}}[({\mathcal{P}}\hat{K}(t)) \hat{\rho}({\mathcal{P}}\hat{K}(t))^{\dagger}]$. Here, $\hat{K}(t)$ is the product of projection operators for the given propositions, and ${\mathcal{P}}\hat{K}(t)$ denotes $\hat{K}(t)$ rearranged arbitrarily. This selection rule extends the consistency condition in the Consistent Histories approach, relaxing constraints imposed by no-go theorems on logical variable representation, joint probability existence, and measurement contextuality. Consequently, our theory successfully describes the essential properties of individual trials, including the discreteness of quantum jumps, the continuity of classical trajectories, and deterministic relations between entangled subsystems. It achieves this without conflicting with quantum equations of motion, canonical commutation relations, or the operator ordering in quantum coherence functions. The direct description of individual trials made possible by this approach sheds new light on the discrete nature of quantum phenomena and the essence of reality.