Theoretical Foundations for Quantum Measurement in a General Relativistic Framework

• Main Author: Pang, Belinda Heyun
• Format: Others
• Published: 2018
• Online Access: https://thesis.library.caltech.edu/11057/2/Pang_Belinda_Thesis_Final.pdf; Pang, Belinda Heyun (2018) Theoretical Foundations for Quantum Measurement in a General Relativistic Framework. Dissertation (Ph.D.), California Institute of Technology. doi:10.7907/dfyy-y188. https://resolver.caltech.edu/CaltechTHESIS:06082018-212416022 <https://resolver.caltech.edu/CaltechTHESIS:06082018-212416022>

In this work, we develop theoretical formulations to analyze experimentally relevant quantum measurement schemes in a general relativistic framework, and discuss their implications versus the Newtonian or non-relativistic viewpoints. Specifically, we address (i) matter waves in simple free fall, (ii) the Mach-Zehdner atom interferometer with light-matter interaction and (iii) optomechanical systems. The motivation is to explore the regime of physics where gravity and relativistic effects become pertinent for quantum experiments due to the increase in system size and complexity. Such experiments may illuminate a way forward to reconcile the independently successful but apparently paradoxical theories of gravity and quantum mechanics, where sound theoretical foundations are necessary to help guide the search for new physics at their interface.