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arXiv · 2506.10023

The quantum theory of the electromagnetic field in the Weyl-Wigner representation as a local realistic model

Emilio Santos
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Abstract

I revisit the Wigner (or Weyl-Wigner, WW) representation of the quantum electromagnetic field. I show that, assuming that Fock states are just mathematical concepts devoid of physical reality, WW suggests a realistic interpretation which turns out to be (classical) Maxwell theory with the assumption that there is a random radiation filling space, the vacuum field. I elucidate why, in sharp constrast, non-relativistic quantum mechanics of particles does not admit a realistic interpretation via WW. I interpret experiments involving entangled light beams within WW, in particular optical tests of Bell inequalities. I show that WW provides clues in order to construct local model for those experiments. I give arguments why Bell defintion of local realism is not general enough.

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Emilio Santos. 2025-06-09. The quantum theory of the electromagnetic field in the Weyl-Wigner representation as a local realistic model. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10701-025-00835-4

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