English

The Quantum Eraser Paradox

Quantum Physics 2021-11-29 v2 History and Philosophy of Physics

Abstract

The Delayed-Choice Quantum Eraser experiment is commonly interpreted as implying that in quantum mechanics a choice made at one time can influence an earlier event. We here suggest an extension of the experiment that results in a paradox when interpreted using a local realist interpretation combined with backward causation ("retrocausality"). We argue that resolving the paradox requires giving up the idea that, in quantum mechanics, a choice can influence the past, and that it instead requires a violation of Statistical Independence without retrocausality. We speculate what the outcome of the experiment would be.

Keywords

Cite

@article{arxiv.2111.09347,
  title  = {The Quantum Eraser Paradox},
  author = {Colm Bracken and Jonte R. Hance and Sabine Hossenfelder},
  journal= {arXiv preprint arXiv:2111.09347},
  year   = {2021}
}

Comments

8 pages, 6 figures. v2: minor fixes, references added

R2 v1 2026-06-24T07:42:40.460Z