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Aspects of nonlinearity in quantum mechanics

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Abstract

The possibility of nonlinear modifications of quantum mechanics is connected with a dichotomy for the interpretation of wave functions formulated by Einstein at the 1927 Solvay congress. Nonlinear extensions are excluded when quantum states as given by density matrices are understood as statistical ensembles, but they seem natural when wave functions are seen as mechanical variables for individual systems. The latter view was refuted by Einstein Podolsky and Rosen in 1935. So quantum mechanics is rigidly linear. Nevertheless nonlinear equations of exactly the kind suggested by the view of wave functions as mechanical variables reappear in mean field quantum dynamics. Examples include nonlinear dynamics on the Poincaré sphere, as well as Gross-Pitaevsky equations for Bose-Einstein condensates.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationProceedings of Nonlinear Dynamics of Electronic Systems, NDES 2012
PublisherInstitute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Inc.
Pages86-89
Number of pages4
ISBN (Electronic)9783800734443
Publication statusPublished - 2012
EventNonlinear Dynamics of Electronic Systems, NDES 2012 - Wolfenbuttel, Germany
Duration: 11 Jul 201213 Jul 2012

Publication series

NameProceedings of Nonlinear Dynamics of Electronic Systems, NDES 2012

Conference

ConferenceNonlinear Dynamics of Electronic Systems, NDES 2012
Country/TerritoryGermany
CityWolfenbuttel
Period11 Jul 201213 Jul 2012

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering
  • Atomic and Molecular Physics, and Optics

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