The Arrow of Time in Quantum Theory

In Classical Mechanics, time is reversible, i.e., it implies no particular choice: only the observer knows in which direction it flows. The present article re-examines whether this remains true in Quantum Mechanics. In the context of Atomic Physics, it is concluded that the existence of an arrow of time depends on the manner in which the radiation field is introduced, which must be non-perturbative.

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Publication Details

Journal
Atoms
Published
2025-10-26
DOI
https://doi.org/10.3390/atoms13110086
Primary Topic
Quantum Mechanics and Applications
Type
article
Field-Weighted Citation Impact
0.00
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article

The Arrow of Time in Quantum Theory

J P Connerade
Atoms
Quantum Mechanics and Applications
article

The Arrow of Time in Quantum Theory

J P Connerade
article en

Abstract

In Classical Mechanics, time is reversible, i.e., it implies no particular choice: only the observer knows in which direction it flows. The present article re-examines whether this remains true in Quantum Mechanics. In the context of Atomic Physics, it is concluded that the existence of an arrow of time depends on the manner in which the radiation field is introduced, which must be non-perturbative.

AtomsVol. 13(11)
Collège de France (FR)
Openalex Percentile: Top 75%
Quantum Mechanics and Applications
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The Arrow of Time in Quantum Theory — J P Connerade · Atoms (2025) | TGRS Research Map | TGRS