## tisdag 21 juni 2016

### New Quantum Mechanics 3: Why?

Modern physics is being based on (i) relativity theory and (ii) quantum mechanics, both viewed to be correct beyond any conceivable doubt, but nevertheless (unfortunately) being incompatible. The result is a modern physics based on shaky grounds of contradictory theories from which anything can emerge, and so has done in the form of string theory and multiversa beyond thinkable experimental verification.

The basic model of quantum mechanics is Schrödinger's equation as a linear equation in a wave function depending on $3N$ spatial dimensions for an atom with $N$ electrons. Schrödinger's equation is an ad hoc model arrived at by a purely formal extension of classical mechanics without direct physical meaning and rationale. Schrödinger's equation is thus viewed as being given by God with the job of physical interpretation being left to humanity in endless quarrels. In this sense quantum mechanics is rather religion than science and the present state of physics maybe a fully logical result.

Experimental support for Schrödinger's equation is in incontestable form only available in the case of Hydrogen with $N=1$, since for larger $N$ the multidimensionality prevents both analytical and computational solution.  The message of books on quantum mechanics that solutions of Schrödinger's equation always (have to) agree with observations, rather reflect a belief that a God-given equation cannot be wrong, than actual human experience.

But if we as scientists do not welcome the idea of an equation given by God beyond human comprehension,  then we may find motivation to search for an alternative atomic model which is computable and thus is possible to compare with physical experiment.  This is my motivation anyway.

And God said:

And then there were Atoms!