Key Experiment and Quantum Reasoning

• DOI: 10.3390/physics4040078
• Publication Date: 2022-10-10T05:21:07Z
• Authors: Moritz Waitzmann; Kim-Alessandro Weber; Susanne Wessnigk; Ruediger Scholz
• Keywords: Beam splitter; Quantum superposition; Double-slit experiment

For around five decades, physicists have been experimenting with single quanta such as photons. Insofar the practised ensemble reasoning has become obsolete for interpretation of these experiments, non-classical intrinsic probabilistic nature quantum theory gained increased importance. One most important exclusive features physics is undeniable existence superposition states, even objects. known example this effect entanglement. In paper, two classically contradictory phenomena are combined to one experiment. This experiment incontestably shows that a photon incident on an optical beam splitter can either be reflected or transmitted. The almost complete absence coincident clicks photodetectors demonstrates output states incompatible. However, when combining using mirrors, we observe interference patterns in counting rate detector. only explanation incompatible prepared and kept simultaneously—a typical consequence states. (Semi-)classical physical concepts fail here, full concept predestined explain complementary experimental outcomes “non-waves” called intend demonstrate true key (“true” sense it cannot explained by any classical concept), (probability, interference), influences students’ readiness use elements interpretation.