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Alberto Rimini

Publications and source records attributed to Alberto Rimini.

4 recordsLinked to original sources

Collapse dynamics and Hilbert-space stochastic processes

Spontaneous collapse models of state vector reduction represent a possible solution to the quantum measurement problem. In the present paper we focus our attention on the Ghirardi-Rimini-Weber (GRW) theory and the corresponding continuous localisation models in the form of a Brownian-driven motion in Hilbert space. We consider experimental setups in which a single photon hits a beam splitter and is subsequently detected by photon detector(s), generating a superposition of photon-detector quantum states. Through a numerical approach we study the dependence of collapse times on the physical features of the superposition generated, including also the effect of a finite reaction time of the measuring apparatus. We find that collapse dynamics is sensitive to the number of detectors and the physical properties of the photon-detector quantum states superposition.

quant-ph

What really matters in Hilbert-space stochastic processes

The relationship between discontinuous and continuous stochastic processes in Hilbert space is investigated. It is shown that for any continuos process there is a parent discontinuous process, that becomes the continuous one in the proper infinite frequency limit. From the point of view of solving the quantum measurement problem, what really matters is the choice of the set of operators whose value distributions are made sharp. In particular, the key role of position sharping is emphasized.

quant-ph

Incompatible and contradictory retrodictions in the history approach to quantum mechanics

We illustrate two simple spin examples which show that in the consistent histories approach to quantum mechanics one can retrodict with certainty incompatible or contradictory propositions corresponding to non-orthogonal or, respectively, orthogonal projections. V.2 vs. V1: The example previously quoted as "d'Espagnat's example" is now properly quoted as "Griffiths' example". A reference to a previous work by Aharonov and Vaidman is added.

quant-ph

Quantum measurement in a family of hidden-variable theories

The measurement process for hidden-configuration formulations of quantum mechanics is analysed. It is shown how a satisfactory description of quantum measurement can be given in this framework. The unified treatment of hidden-configuration theories, including Bohmian mechanics and Nelson's stochastic mechanics, helps in understanding the true reasons why the problem of quantum measurement can succesfully be solved within such theories.

quant-ph