Date:
Location:
Foundations of Physics @Harvard Seminar
On the Status of Quantum Tunnelling Time
Grace Field (University of Cambridge)
Tuesday, November 15
1:00–2:00
Talk
2:00–2:05
Break
2:05–3:00
Open Discussion and Q&A
Zoom Registration
Abstract
How long does a quantum particle take to traverse a classically forbidden energy barrier? In other words, what is the correct expression for quantum tunnelling time? This seemingly simple question has inspired widespread debate in the physics literature. I argue that we should not expect the orthodox interpretation of quantum mechanics to provide a unique correct expression for quantum tunnelling time, because to do so it would have to provide a unique correct answer to a question whose assumptions are in tension with its core interpretational commitments. I explain how this conclusion connects to time’s special status in quantum mechanics, the meaningfulness of classically inspired concepts in different interpretations of quantum mechanics, the prospect of constructing experimental tests to distinguish between different interpretations, and the status of weak measurement in resolving questions about the histories of subensembles.
• The Foundations of Physics @Harvard series is co-sponsored by the Department of Philosophy
• This is a free Zoom event (no registration fee)
• The meeting ID and password will be shared with those who register
• Each talk will be 1 hour, followed by a 5-minute break and then 55 minutes for questions
• You can find more events in this series on the Foundations of Physics @Harvard website
• You can visit the YouTube channel here
Questions or comments: Jacob Barandes, <lastname>(at)g.harvard.edu (organizer)