Wave, Particle, or a Third Possibility?

Abstract

This paper presents an alternative quantum theory, the Theory of Discrete Extension, which avoids many of the conceptual problems of standard quantum mechanics. It is a deterministic, dynamic collapse theory with a well-defined primitive ontology. In place of the dual, classical concepts of wave and particle, the unitary, non-classical concept of a discretely extended object emerges directly from the theory's dynamic equations as a primitive ontology. Because this ontology is unitary, the theory avoids the dilemmas of wave-particle dualism and complementarity. Furthermore, the theory's dynamic equations generate correct, quasi-discrete values of action increments and energy levels without recourse to the operator formalism and eigenvalue postulate of standard quantum mechanics. Quantization of the harmonic oscillator provides a simple illustration. The theory provides insight into the nature of a number of quantum effects such as the zero-point energy of the harmonic oscillator. It also makes a number of predictions that distinguish it from standard quantum mechanics and from Bohmian mechanics.