arXiv subjects

Raymond S. Mackintosh

Publications and source records attributed to Raymond S. Mackintosh.

5 recordsLinked to original sources

arXiv2021

A new perspective on quantum mechanics?

Bell suggested that a new perspective on quantum mechanics was needed. We propose a solution of the measurement problem based on a reconsideration of the nature of particles. The solution is presented with an idealized model involving non-locality or non-separability, identified in 1927 by Einstein and implicit in the standard interpretation of single slit (or hole) diffraction. Considering particles as being localizable entities leads to an `induced collapse model', a parameter-free alternative to spontaneous collapse models, that affords a new perspective on, \emph{inter alia}, nuclear decay.

physics.hist-ph↗

arXiv2019

Wigner's friend in context

Wigner's friend is commonly invoked in discussion of quantum mechanics and its interpretation.. but who is the friend really? The publishing context of Wigner's article is not widely appreciated. A recent paper by Ballentine is relevant.

physics.hist-ph↗

arXiv2016

Evidence for L-dependence generated by channel coupling: O16 scattering from C12 at 115.9 Mev

The inclusion of strong coupling to states of projectile and target nuclei for 115.9 MeV \nuc{16}{O} scattering from \nuc{12}{C} leads to an S-matrix which, when subject to $S_{L} \rightarrow V(r) $ inversion, yields highly undulatory local potentials. Previous work has shown that explicitly $L$-dependent non-undulatory potentials are equivalent to undulatory $L$-independent potentials with the same S-matrix. Here we show that $L$-independent equivalents for certain simple model $L$-dependent potentials exhibit undulatory features qualitatively similar to those arising from channel coupling for 115.9 MeV \nuc{16}{O} scattering from \nuc{12}{C}. We discuss the relevance to the question of $L$-dependence as a generic property of nucleus-nucleus interactions.

nucl-th↗

arXiv2012

Inverse scattering: applications to nuclear physics

In what follows we first set the context for inverse scattering in nuclear physics with a brief account of inverse problems in general. We then turn to inverse scattering which involves the S-matrix, which connects the interaction potential between two scattering particles with the measured scattering cross section. The term `inverse' is a reference to the fact that instead of determining the scattering S-matrix from the interaction potential between the scattering particles, we do the inverse. That is to say, we calculate the interaction potential from the S-matrix. This review explains how this can now be done reliably, but the emphasis will be upon reasons why one should wish to do this, with an account of some of the ways this can lead to understanding concerning nuclear interactions.

nucl-th↗

arXiv1999

International Workshop on the Future of Physics and Society, Debrecen, Hungary, 4-6 March 1999, Workshop Summary

The Debrecen workshop was one of a number held in preparation for the UNESCO-ICSU World Conference on Science, which will be held in Budapest, June 1999. A report representing the views of the workshop, prepared for that conference and containing a number of recommended actions, is included with this summary. The workshop affirmed the ongoing importance of physics for its own sake and as part of our culture, as a key element in our increasingly unified science and as an essential contributor to the solution of environmental and energy problems. The problems faced by physics as an activity and as an educational subject were discussed and actions for both society as a whole and the physics community itself were put forward.

physics.soc-ph↗