Bohmian Mechanics

TL;DR

Orthodox quantum theory’s measurement problem leaves the definite pointer outcome unrepresented in the final wave function. This paper presents Bohmian mechanics, a deterministic theory of particle trajectories that resolves the problem and reproduces quantum-mechanical experimental predictions.

• Problem

  In orthodox quantum theory, the final wave function does not represent the definite pointer outcome of a measurement, leaving the measurement problem.

  Source: p. 6

• Method

  Bohmian mechanics models a non-relativistic system as point particles moving along trajectories determined by equations from the initial particle configuration and wave function.

  Source: pp. 2–3

• Results

  Bohmian mechanics provides a consistent resolution of quantum-mechanical paradoxes, including the measurement problem, and derives wave-function collapse.

  Source: p. 2

• Takeaways & Limitations

  For every unambiguous quantum-mechanical experimental prediction, Bohmian mechanics makes the same prediction, so the theories cannot be tested against each other.

  Source: p. 5

  Non-relativistic Bohmian mechanics does not account for particle creation and annihilation and is incompatible with special relativity.

  Source: p. 8