Stage analysis of delayed-choice and quantum eraser experiments

Abstract

Delayed choice and quantum eraser experiments have attracted much interest recently, both theoretically and experimentally. In particular, they have prompted suggestions that quantum mechanics involves acausal effects. Using a recently developed approach which takes apparatus into account, we present a detailed analysis of various double-slit experiments to show that this is never the case. Instead, quantum experiments can be described in terms of a novel concept of time called stages. These can cut across the conventional linear time parameter as experienced in the laboratory and appear to violate causality.