Hidden correlations in quantum jumps: A theory of individual trials
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Abstract
Quantum trajectory theories have not fully reconciled discrete quantum jumps with continuous unitary evolution. We address this challenge by developing a hidden variable formulation that reveals hidden correlations in individual trials. We represent jump sequences as logical propositions on energy eigenstate occupations, where logical variables describe their truth values and chain operators describe their probabilities. To circumvent established no-go theorems, we introduce a proposition selection rule that requires well-defined joint probabilities for a given density operator. This rule unifies compatibility criteria for quantum and hidden variable theories, eliminating incompatible propositions that lead to value assignment paradoxes. Unlike conventional criteria mandating operator commutativity, it permits propositions that become deterministic for specific initial conditions. This framework systematically captures deterministic relations in individual trials, including the exclusivity of state occupation implied by the observed jumps. This exclusivity, distinct from the Pauli exclusion principle, enables the formalization of a quantum version of Boolean logic as laws for quantum propositions. These assumptions circumvent Bell-type inequalities by prohibiting arithmetic operations between incompatible logical variables, while enabling classical descriptions within the complementarity. The resulting theory reconciles discrete jumps with continuous evolution, providing a direct description of individual trials while preserving standard probability predictions.