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The controversy about interference of photons.

Authors :
Bhatta, Varun S.
Source :
Studies in History & Philosophy of Science Part A. Aug2024, Vol. 106, p146-154. 9p.
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. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
00393681
Volume :
106
Database :
Academic Search Index
Journal :
Studies in History & Philosophy of Science Part A
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
178885090
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.shpsa.2024.06.003