Symmetrization and Fock Space
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: The assertion that quantum states of same-type particles have to be symmetrized because they are indistinguishable has led to a debate in the foundations of quantum mechanics around topics like “thisness” of particles and “surplus structure” in spaces of quantum states. We analyze the underlying mathematical notions and find that a central issue lies in the a priori identification of n-particle Fock space with the n-fold tensor product of single-particle spaces and the corresponding failure to recognize that multi-particle quantum states are ultimately the result of actions of Hamiltonians.
Source: Entropy
DOI: 10.3390/e28090996
Author: Andreas Schlatter
Language: English
Subfield: Atomic and Molecular Physics, and Optics
Field: Physics and Astronomy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,137
OpenAlex ID: W7211880662