The Emerging Quantum: The Physics Behind Quantum Mechanics

by Luis de la Peña, Ana María Cetto, Andrea Valdés Hernández

This monograph presents the latest findings from a long-term research project intended to identify the physics behind Quantum Mechanics. A fundamental theory for quantum mechanics is constructed from first physical principles, revealing quantization as an emergent phenomenon arising from a deeper stochastic process. As such, it offers the vibrant community working on the foundations of quantum mechanics an alternative contribution open to discussion. The book starts with a critical summary of the main conceptual problems that still beset quantum mechanics. The basic consideration is then introduced that any material system is an open system in permanent contact with the random zero-point radiation field, with which it may reach a state of equilibrium. Working from this basis, a comprehensive and self-consistent theoretical framework is then developed. The pillars of the quantum-mechanical formalism are derived, as well as the radiative corrections of nonrelativistic QED, while revealing the underlying physical mechanisms. The genesis of some of the central features of quantum theory is elucidated, such as atomic stability, the spin of the electron, quantum fluctuations, quantum nonlocality and entanglement. The theory developed here reaffirms fundamental scientific principles such as realism, causality, locality and objectivity.

765 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 15, 2014

About the author

Luis Fernando de la Peña Auerbach es un físico mexicano. Es investigador del Instituto de Física y profesor de la Facultad de Ciencias de la Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México y es miembro del Consejo Consultivo de Ciencias de la Presidencia de la República.