On the quantum‐to‐classical transition of a particle in a box

Abstract

The exact formulation of the correspondence principle and in particular understanding the quantum‐to‐classical transition remains an open problem in quantum mechanics. In this paper we present our investigation into the quantum‐to‐classical transition of the most trivial of quantum systems — a particle in a box. Whilst it is perhaps surprising, even this example can produce new physical insight into these fundamental problems. With modern fabrication techniques of nano‐mechanical systems we will be able to experimentally investigate these results and directly observe the quantum‐to‐classical transition. This will enable us to build technologies that probe the fundamental questions of quantum mechanics, such as the maximum size of a quantum object.