Delayed Choice Phenomena in the Projection Evolution Model

TL;DR

This paper proposes a model where time is treated as a quantum observable, enabling a spacetime-based description of quantum processes and explaining delayed-choice experiments through temporal overlaps.

Contribution

It introduces a projection evolution model that defines wave functions in space and time, allowing for a time operator and a new explanation of delayed-choice phenomena.

Findings

Delayed-choice experiments explained by temporal overlap in the model

Wave function defined in both space and time

Time as a quantum observable enables spacetime quantum evolution

Abstract

In the Schr\"odinger evolution of a quantum state time enters as a real parameter representing the coordinate. In a more consistent approach time should be defined as a quantum observable, with the evolution taking place in a four-dimensional spacetime. This is possible in the projection evolution model in which the wave function is defined in both space and time. This allows to construct the time operator and discuss the temporal structure of quantum processes. In this paper we discuss a photon travelling through a Mach-Zehnder interferometer, focusing the description on the temporal profile of the wave function. We show that in this approach the delayed-choice experiments can be explained by the temporal overlap of the photon and the devices in the interferometer.