Quantum mechanical description of Stern-Gerlach experiments

Abstract

The motion of neutral particles with magnetic moments in an inhomogeneous magnetic field is described in a quantum mechanical framework. The validity of the semi-classical approximations which are generally used to describe these phenomena is discussed. Approximate expressions for the evolution operator are derived and compared to the exact calculations. Focusing and spin-flip phenomena are predicted. The reliability of Stern-Gerlach experiments to measure spin projections is assessed in this framework.

arXiv comment12 pages, 7 eps figures included, revtex, submitted to PRA

References in corpus (2)

• A General Argument Against the Universal Validity of the Superposition Principle
• Semiclassical description of Stern-Gerlach experiments

Cited by in corpus (11)

• Distinguishability of apparatus states in quantum measurement in the Stern-Gerlach experiment
• The canonical Naimark extension for the Pauli quantum roulette wheel
• Quantum propensities in the brain cortex and free will
• Single-particle steering and nonlocality: The consecutive Stern-Gerlach Experiments
• Error-Disturbance Relation in Stern-Gerlach Measurements
• Classical, quantum and event-by-event simulation of a Stern-Gerlach experiment with neutrons
• Using the no-signaling condition for constraining the nonidealness of a Stern-Gerlach setup
• Spin-state estimation using the Stern-Gerlach experiment
• A Stepwise Planned Approach to the Solution of Hilbert's Sixth Problem. III : Measurements and von Neumann Projection/Collapse Rule
• Violation of Heisenberg's error-disturbance relation by Stern-Gerlach measurements
• Twisted Spin in Quantum Mechanics