Random World and Quantum Mechanics

Abstract

Quantum mechanics (QM) predicts probabilities on the fundamental level which are, via Born probability law, connected to the formal randomness of infinite sequences of QM outcomes. Recently it has been shown that QM is algorithmic 1-random in the sense of Martin-Löf. We extend this result and demonstrate that QM is algorithmic ω-random and generic, precisely as described by the 'miniaturisation' of the Solovay forcing to arithmetic. This is extended further to the result that QM becomes Zermelo-Fraenkel Solovay random on infinite-dimensional Hilbert spaces. Moreover, it is more likely that there exists a standard transitive ZFC model M , where QM is expressed in reality, than in the universe V of sets. Then every generic quantum measurement adds to M the infinite sequence, i.e. random real r ∈ 2 ω , and the model undergoes random forcing extensions M [r]. The entire process of forcing becomes the structural ingredient of QM and parallels similar constructions applied to spacetime in the quantum limit, therefore showing the structural resemblance of both in this limit. We discuss several questions regarding measurability and possible practical applications of the extended Solovay randomness of QM. The method applied is the formalization based on models of ZFC; however, this is particularly well-suited technique to recognising randomness questions of QM. When one works in a constant model of ZFC or in axiomatic ZFC itself, the issues considered here remain hidden to a great extent.