Significance of electromagnetic potentials in the quantum theory
Y Aharonov, D Bohm - Physical review, 1959 - APS
Y Aharonov, D Bohm
Physical review, 1959•APSIn this paper, we discuss some interesting properties of the electromagnetic potentials in the
quantum domain. We shall show that, contrary to the conclusions of classical mechanics,
there exist effects of potentials on charged particles, even in the region where all the fields
(and therefore the forces on the particles) vanish. We shall then discuss possible
experiments to test these conclusions; and, finally, we shall suggest further possible
developments in the interpretation of the potentials.
quantum domain. We shall show that, contrary to the conclusions of classical mechanics,
there exist effects of potentials on charged particles, even in the region where all the fields
(and therefore the forces on the particles) vanish. We shall then discuss possible
experiments to test these conclusions; and, finally, we shall suggest further possible
developments in the interpretation of the potentials.
Abstract
In this paper, we discuss some interesting properties of the electromagnetic potentials in the quantum domain. We shall show that, contrary to the conclusions of classical mechanics, there exist effects of potentials on charged particles, even in the region where all the fields (and therefore the forces on the particles) vanish. We shall then discuss possible experiments to test these conclusions; and, finally, we shall suggest further possible developments in the interpretation of the potentials.
American Physical Society