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Single-photon test of hyper-complex quantum theories using a metamaterial
Lorenzo M Procopio1, Lee A Rozema1, Zi Jing Wong2,3
1Vienna Center for Quantum Science and Technology, University of Vienna, Boltzmanngasse 5, Vienna A-1090, Austria.
Nature Communications
|April 22, 2017
Summary
This study experimentally tested hyper-complex quantum theories by examining phase non-commutativity using single photons and metamaterials. Results show phases commute, placing limits on hyper-complex quantum theory predictions.
Area of Science:
- Quantum Mechanics
- Metamaterials
- Photonics
Background:
- Standard quantum mechanics utilizes complex numbers for wavefunctions, but theoretical alternatives like hyper-complex numbers exist.
- Experiments have ruled out real numbers, but the necessity of hyper-complex numbers remains unverified.
Purpose of the Study:
- To experimentally investigate hyper-complex quantum theories.
- To probe the non-commutativity of phases as a deviation from standard complex quantum theory.
Main Methods:
- Single photons were passed through a Sagnac interferometer.
- A metamaterial with a negative refractive index and a positive phase shifter were integrated into the interferometer.
- A fishnet metamaterial was engineered for negative refractive index at 780 nm.
Main Results:
- The phase introduced by the metamaterial was shown to commute with other phases with high precision.
- Experimental data allowed for the placement of limits on specific predictions of hyper-complex quantum theories.
Conclusions:
- The experimental results constrain the predictions of hyper-complex quantum theories.
- Further investigation into the fundamental nature of quantum mechanical descriptions may be warranted.
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