Experimental Tests for Stochastic Reduction Models

Abstract

Stochastic models for quantum state reduction give rise to statistical laws that are in many respects in agreement with those of standard quantum measurement theory. Here we construct a counterexample involving a Hamiltonian with degenerate eigenvalues such that the statistical predictions of stochastic reduction models differ from the predictions of quantum measurement theory. An idealised experiment is proposed whereby the validity of these predictions can be put to the test.