Work

A paradox in the quantum-mechanical treatment of destructive measurements on photons

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Measurements on photons are frequently cited as confirmations of predictions of quantum mechanics (QMs), in particular in the context of Bell’s theorem. In this paper we show, however, that we cannot ever claim to have measured a property of a photon if we treat a destructive measurement of the value of a property of a photon prepared in a superposition of eigenstates in the framework of orthodox QM.

Source: Journal of Physics Photonics

DOI: 10.1088/2515-7647/ae0d20

Authors: Marcoen J T F Cabbolet, Yves Caudano

Institutions: Vrije Universiteit Brussel, University of Namur, Namur Institute for Complex Systems, Namur Institute of Structured Matter

Language: English

Topic: Quantum Mechanics and Applications

Subfield: Atomic and Molecular Physics, and Optics

Field: Physics and Astronomy

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,700

Funders: European Commission, Fonds De La Recherche Scientifique - FNRS