Transactional Interpretation
- Xavier Perez-Nunez
- Jan 20
- 2 min read
Updated: Feb 27
A Time-Symmetric Non-Local theory that incorporates retro-causality...
In this must-watch Summer blockbuster, Doc and Marty are hopping back into the DeLorean to mess with the space-time continuum, but this time with a bit of quantum mechanical flair!
The Transactional Interpretation explains the wave function as a physical wave that can be sent forward (retarded) and backward (advanced) in time. A quantum event (such as the emission and absorption of a photon) occurs due to a Wheeler-Feynman ‘handshake’, a process in which a retarded and advanced wave overlap and complete the transaction.
A quantum process can be described in 4 stages(as seen in the video):
Emission, in which a particle that needs to transfer a measurable quantity (e.g., momentum) emits an ‘offer wave’ in the form of a physical wave Ψ, which travels forward in time until it reaches a candidate for absorption. This is analogous to Marty sending out his letters.
Response, in which all the potential absorbers receive the offer wave and, in response, produce a unique ‘confirmation wave’ in the form of a physical wave Ψ* which travels backwards in time. These different ‘confirmation waves’ from the different potential absorbers travel back in time to arrive at the source at the exact moment of the initial emission. This is analogous to Jennifer sending her letter.
Stochastic Choice, in which the source selects which of the potential absorbers to emit to. This process is done probabilistically, with higher probability assigned to ‘offer and confirmation’ wave pairs with higher amplitudes (as determined by Ψ Ψ*). This would be like if Marty received many letters from different willing suitors and suitresses and gave more thought to those who wrote more emotive letters.
The final stage is completion, in which the source and selected absorber carry out the quantum transaction (such as exchange of momentum via a photon). This is analogous to Marty going to meet Jennifer (which presumably happens in a post-credit scene).
Is Retro-Causality a Real Phenomena or Just a Mathematical Trick?
it's real (at least on a quantum scale)
Time travel is a ridiculous notion
Yes, but only if the particle can travel at 88mph 😉
Recommendation For Further Reading:
The Quantum Handshake Explored, by John G. Cramer. It is a detailed introduction to the concepts of the interpretation with many experimental examples. https://faculty.washington.edu/jcramer/TI/The_Quantum_Handshake_Explored.pdf
Comments Section
" That 'handshake' idea sure is wonderful, but I'm still pretty indifferent "
"I'm all for non-local interpretations but this is a bit much! "
" An interpretation that is non-deterministic and involves retro-causality is truly hideous "
Comments