CP Violation, Mixing, and Quantum Mechanics

Abstract

We discuss the quantum mechanics of B-factory experiments, and that of neutral K or B decay. Predictions for the processes to be studied at the B factories can be made through an approach based on amplitudes, rather than on wave functions. This approach avoids the puzzles of the "collapse of the wave function." In the treatment of the decay of a neutral K or B, the contributions of the different mass eigenstate components of the decaying particle must be evaluated at exactly the same spacetime point. Otherwise, the frequency predicted for the oscillation of the decay rate may be incorrect.