Quantum and Classical Disparity and Accord

Abstract

Discrepancies and accords between quantum (QM) and classical mechanics (CM) related to expectation values and periods are generally found for both the harmonic oscillator (SHO) and a free particle in a box (FPB), which may apply generally. These indicate non-locality is expected throughout QM. The FPB energy states violate the Correspondence Principle. Previously unexpected accords are found and proven that 〈x 2〉 CM =〈x 2〉 QM and τ CM =τ QMb (beat period i.e. beats between the phases for adjoining energy states) for the SHO for all quantum numbers, n. However, for the FPB the beat periods differ at small n. It is shown that a particle’s velocity in an infinite square well varies, no matter how wide the box, nor how far the particle is from the walls. The quantum free particle variances share an indirect commonality with the Aharonov-Bohm and Aharonov-Casher effects in that there is a quantum action in the absence of a force. The concept of an “Expectation Value over a Partial Well Width” is introduced. This paper raises the question as to whether these inconsistencies are undetectable, or can be empirically ascertained. These inherent variances may need to be fixed, or nature is manifestly more non-classical than expected.