Pinhole interference in three-dimensional fuzzy space
Published in Annals of Physics, 2023
Recommended citation: Trinchero, D. and Scholtz, F.G. (2023) "Pinhole interference in three-dimensional fuzzy space", Annals of Physics, 450, p. 169224. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.aop.2023.169224
Paper: Annals of Physics, Preprint: arXiv / local
This paper discusses the results of my Master’s thesis, and is coauthored by my supervisor, Prof. Frederik Scholtz.
Overview
The paper focusses on the structure of space at short length scales, and possible ways that this can be tested.
We adopt the well-established fuzzy-sphere formalism for quantum mechanics in non-commutative space, and calculate the quantum interference for in a simple two-pinhole setup. We show that interference is suppressed for macroscopic objects, so that a quantum-to-classical transition occurs. The mechanism behind this transition is decoherence, only without requiring an external heat bath.
We make contact with existing and future experimental implementations, providing falsifiable predictions for the short length scale structure of space.
Related references
The results shown in this paper are discussed at greater length in my Master’s thesis, and were also presented in a webinar as part of the “Room 316” series hosted by Prof. A. P. Balachandran of Syracuse University.