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The controversy about interference of photons.
- Source :
-
Studies in history and philosophy of science [Stud Hist Philos Sci] 2024 Aug; Vol. 106, pp. 146-154. Date of Electronic Publication: 2024 Jul 08. - Publication Year :
- 2024
-
Abstract
- In the 1960s, the demonstration of interference effects using two laser-beams raised the question: can two photons interfere? Its plausibility contested Dirac's dictum, "Interference between two different photons never occurs". Disagreements about this conflict led to a controversy. This paper will chart the controversy's contour and show that it evolved over two phases. Subsequently, I investigate the reasons for its perpetuation. The controversy was initiated and fuelled by several misinterpretations of the dictum. I also argue that Dirac's dictum is not applicable to two photon interference as they belong to different contexts of interference. Recognising this resolves the controversy.<br /> (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)
- Subjects :
- History, 20th Century
Photons
Lasers history
Lasers adverse effects
Subjects
Details
- Language :
- English
- ISSN :
- 0039-3681
- Volume :
- 106
- Database :
- MEDLINE
- Journal :
- Studies in history and philosophy of science
- Publication Type :
- Academic Journal
- Accession number :
- 38981406
- Full Text :
- https://doi.org/10.1016/j.shpsa.2024.06.003