On the quantum origin of potentials

Abstract

The dynamics of a quantum particle is governed by its wavefunction, which in turn is determined by the classical potential to which it is subjected. However the wavefunction itself induces a quantum potential, the particle `sees' the sum of the classical and quantum potentials, and there is no way to separate the two. Therefore in principle, part or whole of an observed potential may be attributable to a quantum potential. We examine this possibility and discuss implications.