Testing Quantum Theory with Higher-Order Interference in Many-Particle Correlations

The structure of quantum theory allows interference of indistinguishable paths, but higher-order interference is prohibited. This thesis develops and studies concepts to test quantum theory with higher-order interference using many-particle correlations, which are generally richer and more subtle than single-particle correlations. It is demonstrated that quantum theory in general allows for interference up to order 2M in M-particle correlations, but the related interference hierarchy can terminate earlier depending on the mutual coherence of the particles. We introduce two families of many-particle Sorkin parameters, whose members are expected to be all zero when quantum mechanics holds, and demonstrate the disparate vanishing of such higher-order interference terms as a function of coherence in experiments with mutually coherent and incoherent sources. We also investigate the influence of exotic kinked or looped quantum paths, which are permitted by Feynmans path integral approach, in such setups.

Format: Hardback
Length: 200 pages
Publication date: 19 May 2022
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

Quantum theory's framework allows for the interference of indistinguishable pathways, yet it imposes restrictions on such interference to specific orders and prohibits higher-order interference. This thesis explores and develops concepts to test quantum theory with higher-order interference through the utilization of many-particle correlations, which are generally richer and more nuanced than single-particle correlations. It is demonstrated that quantum theory in general permits interference up to order 2M in M-particle correlations. However, the related interference hierarchy can terminate earlier, depending on the mutual coherence of the particles.

In this thesis, we showcase that mutually coherent particles can exhibit interference of the highest orders allowed. Furthermore, we demonstrate that interference of mutually incoherent particles truncates at order M+1, although interference of the latter is principally more multifaceted than their coherent counterpart. We introduce two families of many-particle Sorkin parameters, whose members are expected to be all zero when quantum mechanics holds. As proof of concept, we demonstrate the disparate vanishing of such higher-order interference terms as a function of coherence in experiments with mutually coherent and incoherent sources.

Finally, we investigate the influence of exotic kinked or looped quantum paths, which are permitted by Feynman's path integral approach, in such setups.

Weight: 494g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031044533
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022