Gravity-induced wave-function collapse and experimental tests

• Applicant: Dr. André Großardt
• Subject Area: Nuclear and Elementary Particle Physics, Quantum Mechanics, Relativity, Fields
• Term: from 2014 to 2016
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 266142017

Contemporary physics has no unambiguous answer to the question how quantum matter sources a gravitational field. At the same time, various models try to link gravitation with the collapse of the wave-function. In this project I will address the question whether a gravitational self-interaction in quantum systems as described by the Schrödinger-Newton equation plays a rôle for the understanding of quantum state reduction, and if so, what the mechanism of this reduction is.When interpreted as a collapse model, the Schrödinger-Newton equation manifests certain behaviours for which a better understanding has to be gained. This study will be followed up by research on how the gravitational interaction according to the Schrödinger-Newton equation can be merged with the stochastic collapse models currently studied at the host institution in the group of Angelo Bassi at the University of Trieste.To balance this purely theoretical research, I will significantly improve on propositions of how to experimentally test the Schrödinger-Newton dynamics. For this, I will draw on the work I did during my PhD thesis. The improved predictions will be experimentally tested through an existing collaboration of the host institution with the experimental group of Hendrik Ulbricht in Southampton.Such a positive test, or falsification, of the Schrödinger-Newton equation will provide new insight into the form and structure of the gravitational interaction at the microscopic level, and, by extension, provide a better understanding of the foundations of Quantum Mechanics.

• DFG Programme: Research Fellowships
• International Connection: Italy
• Host: Dr. Angelo Bassi