Spatial Degrees of Freedom in Everett Quantum Mechanics

Foundations of Physics 36 (8):1115-1159 (2006)
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Abstract

Stapp claims that, when spatial degrees of freedom are taken into account, Everett quantum mechanics is ambiguous due to a “core basis problem.” To examine an aspect of this claim I generalize the ideal measurement model to include translational degrees of freedom for both the measured system and the measuring apparatus. Analysis of this generalized model using the Everett interpretation in the Heisenberg picture shows that it makes unambiguous predictions for the possible results of measurements and their respective probabilities. The presence of translational degrees of freedom for the measuring apparatus affects the probabilities of measurement outcomes in the same way that a mixed state for the measured system would. Examination of a measurement scenario involving several observers illustrates the consistency of the model with perceived spatial localization of the measuring apparatus

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Citations of this work

Many-worlds interpretation of quantum mechanics.Lev Vaidman - 2008 - Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy.
Observers and Locality in Everett Quantum Field Theory.Mark A. Rubin - 2011 - Foundations of Physics 41 (7):1236-1262.

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References found in this work

Conceptual foundations of quantum mechanics.Bernard D' Espagnat - 1971 - Redwood City, Calif.: Addison-Wesley, Advanced Book Program.
Many-worlds interpretation of quantum mechanics.Lev Vaidman - 2008 - Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy.

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