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Quantum mechanics without quanta: the nature of the wave–particle duality of light

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Abstract

In this paper, I argue that light is a continuous classical electromagnetic wave, while the observed so-called quantum nature of the interaction of light with matter is connected to the discrete (atomic) structure of matter and to the specific nature of the light–atom interaction. From this point of view, the Born rule for light is derived, and the double-slit experiment is analysed in detail. I show that the double-slit experiment can be explained without using the concept of a “photon”, solely on the basis of classical electrodynamics. I show that within this framework, the Heisenberg uncertainty principle for a “photon” has a simple physical meaning not related to the fundamental limitations in accuracy of the simultaneous measurement of position and momentum or time and energy.

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Acknowledgments

Funding was provided by Tomsk State University competitiveness improvement program.

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  1. Institute for Problems in Mechanics, Russian Academy of Sciences, Vernadskogo Ave., 101/1, Moscow, 119526, Russia

    Sergey A. Rashkovskiy

  2. Tomsk State University, 36 Lenina Avenue, Tomsk, 634050, Russia

    Sergey A. Rashkovskiy

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Correspondence to Sergey A. Rashkovskiy.

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Rashkovskiy, S.A. Quantum mechanics without quanta: the nature of the wave–particle duality of light. Quantum Stud.: Math. Found. 3, 147–160 (2016). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40509-015-0063-5

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