The Uncertainty Principle, Uncertainty Relations, and Underlying Trajectories: Feynman, Nelson, Bohm, and Persistent Kac-Dirac Dynamics

Abstract:A distinction should be made between quantum uncertainty relations and the broader uncertainty principle. The former are precise statistical consequences of quantum mechanics; the latter, when interpreted as excluding simultaneously definite conjugate variables and particle trajectories, is an additional ontological claim not implied by the uncertainty relations themselves. We examine this distinction using Feynman paths, Nelson's stochastic mechanics, Bohmian mechanics, and finite-speed persistent Kac dynamics. Feynman paths exhibit Brownian-like short-time scaling, while Nelson derives Schrödinger dynamics from Wiener diffusion supplemented by dynamical assumptions. Bohmian mechanics, by contrast, reproduces quantum predictions while retaining definite particle trajectories. Kac dynamics provides continuous, piecewise differentiable finite-speed trajectories whose diffusive limit approaches Wiener kinematics. Moreover, after an appropriate Wick rotation, its coupled two-sector transport equations can be mapped to the Dirac equation. These examples demonstrate that the experimentally established uncertainty relations are compatible with markedly different underlying path structures. They therefore do not, by themselves, rule out a microscopic trajectory description of quantum dynamics.

arXiv:2609.29248 [quant-ph]

(or arXiv:2609.29248v1 [quant-ph] for this version)

https://doi.org/10.48550/arXiv.2609.29248 Focus to learn more arXiv-issued DOI via DataCite (pending registration)

arXivLabs is a framework that allows collaborators to develop and share new arXiv features directly on our website.

Both individuals and organizations that work with arXivLabs have embraced and accepted our values of openness, community, excellence, and user data privacy. arXiv is committed to these values and only works with partners that adhere to them.

Have an idea for a project that will add value for arXiv's community? Learn more about arXivLabs.