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This is the first single volume about the collapse theories of quantum mechanics, which is becoming a very active field of research in both physics and philosophy. In standard quantum mechanics, it is postulated that when the wave function of a quantum system is measured, it no longer follows the Schrödinger equation, but instantaneously and randomly collapses to one of the wave functions that correspond to definite measurement results. However, why and how a definite measurement result appears is unknown. A promising solution to this problem are collapse theories in which the collapse of the wave function is spontaneous and dynamical. Chapters written by distinguished physicists and philosophers of physics discuss the origin and implications of wave-function collapse, the controversies around collapse models and their ontologies, and new arguments for the reality of wave function collapse. This is an invaluable resource for students and researchers interested in the philosophy of physics and foundations of quantum mechanics.

Wave functions. --- Quantum theory. --- Quantum dynamics --- Quantum mechanics --- Quantum physics --- Physics --- Mechanics --- Thermodynamics --- Wave function --- Functions --- Wave mechanics --- Configuration space

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Protective measurements offer an intriguing method for measuring the wave function of a single quantum system. With contributions from leading physicists and philosophers of physics - including two of the original discoverers of this important method - this book explores the concept of protective measurement, investigating its broad applications and deep implications. Addressing both physical and philosophical aspects, it covers a diverse range of topics, including experimental possibility of protective measurements, connections with the PBR theorem, and the implications of protective measurements for understanding the nature of quantum reality. Including a clear and concise introduction to standard quantum mechanics, conventional measurements, and the fundamentals of protective measurements, this is a valuable resource for graduate students and researchers interested in the conceptual foundations of quantum mechanics.

Quantum theory. --- Physical measurements.

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Combining twenty-six original essays written by an impressive line-up of distinguished physicists and philosophers of physics, this anthology reflects some of the latest thoughts by leading experts on the influence of Bell's theorem on quantum physics. Essays progress from John Bell's character and background, through studies of his main work, and on to more speculative ideas, addressing the controversies surrounding the theorem, and investigating the theorem's meaning and its deep implications for the nature of physical reality. Combined, they present a powerful comment on the undeniable significance of Bell's theorem for the development of ideas in quantum physics over the past 50 years. Questions surrounding the assumptions and significance of Bell's work still inspire discussion in the field of quantum physics. Adding to this with a theoretical and philosophical perspective, this balanced anthology is an indispensable volume for students and researchers interested in the philosophy of physics and the foundations of quantum mechanics.

Bell's theorem. --- Quantum theory. --- Bell, J. S. --- Quantum dynamics --- Quantum mechanics --- Quantum physics --- Physics --- Mechanics --- Thermodynamics --- Bell inequalities --- Bell inequality --- Bell theorem --- Inequalities, Bell --- Inequality, Bell --- Quantum theory --- Bell, John, --- Bell, John Stewart --- Bell, John --- Bell, John Stewart, --- Bell, John S

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Given the critical significance of rate coefficients in formulating models for molecular excitation and reactivity within astronomical environments such as the atmospheres of exoplanets and evolved stars, a noteworthy shortage of data is often observed. In the realm of inelastic molecular collisions, the quasi-classical trajectory (QCT) method represents an efficient alternative to the quantum-mechanical close-coupling (CC) approach, especially in systems featuring a large number of degrees of freedom or high temperatures. In light of the high temperatures under investigation, it is essential to address both rotational and vibrational motions within these molecules comprehensively. This research is dedicated to employing the QCT method to investigate molecular collisions at temperatures extending up to 3000 K. The subsequent assessment of the impact of the newly computed rate coefficients on current astrochemistry models holds the potential to enhance our understanding of the complex chemistry occurring in these high-temperature astronomical environments. Inelastic molecular collision systems, namely interactions involving HC3N-H2, SO-H2, SO-He, and AlO-He are studied. Calculations with the QCT method are performed to obtain the state-to-state rate coefficients for rotational de-excitation among the lowest 51 rotational levels of molecules HC3N by H2, SO by H2, SO by He and AlO by He, the fine structure rate coefficients for rotational de-excitation among the lowest 118 levels of SO by He and the lowest 31 levels of SO by H2. Calculations with the CC method are performed for the cross sections for state-to-state rotational de-excitation of AlO by He to up to 400.0 cm