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edited May 19, 2021 at 18:57

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The SchrodingerSchrödinger equation in non-relativistic quantum mechanics yields the time-evolution of the so-called wavefunction corresponding to the system concerned under the action of the associated Hamiltonian. And this wavefunction is, in general, complex, and its modulus squared yields the probabilities observed experimentally. Though, perhaps, this question has been asked many times, I am wondering if there is a direct physical interpretation - something that physically corresponds to - the wavefunction. Or is it just an intermediate calculational tool to arrive at the appropriate predictions for experimental outcomes, and nothing more? Of course, things like superposition and interference effects follow from the complex nature of the probability amplitude. So there must be something physical about it. What is it? Or are we not supposed to ask that question?

Is isit because the probability amplitude is complex that we have difficulty in relating it to something physical? Can we do quantum mechanics without complex numbers?

The Schrodinger equation in non-relativistic quantum mechanics yields the time-evolution of the so-called wavefunction corresponding to the system concerned under the action of the associated Hamiltonian. And this wavefunction is, in general, complex, and its modulus squared yields the probabilities observed experimentally. Though, perhaps, this question has been asked many times, I am wondering if there is a direct physical interpretation - something that physically corresponds to - the wavefunction. Or is it just an intermediate calculational tool to arrive at the appropriate predictions for experimental outcomes, and nothing more? Of course, things like superposition and interference effects follow from the complex nature of the probability amplitude. So there must be something physical about it. What is it? Or are we not supposed to ask that question?

Is is because the probability amplitude is complex that we have difficulty in relating it to something physical? Can we do quantum mechanics without complex numbers?

The Schrödinger equation in non-relativistic quantum mechanics yields the time-evolution of the so-called wavefunction corresponding to the system concerned under the action of the associated Hamiltonian. And this wavefunction is, in general, complex, and its modulus squared yields the probabilities observed experimentally. Though, perhaps, this question has been asked many times, I am wondering if there is a direct physical interpretation - something that physically corresponds to - the wavefunction. Or is it just an intermediate calculational tool to arrive at the appropriate predictions for experimental outcomes, and nothing more? Of course, things like superposition and interference effects follow from the complex nature of the probability amplitude. So there must be something physical about it. What is it? Or are we not supposed to ask that question?

Is it because the probability amplitude is complex that we have difficulty in relating it to something physical? Can we do quantum mechanics without complex numbers?