Is *-Algebra the Key to Understanding Quantum Probability Theory?

In summary, the conversation discusses the relationship between probability theory and quantum mechanics, specifically the use of Kolmogorov's axioms in quantum mechanics. The speaker is interested in finding a book that covers this topic, as well as other mathematical foundations of quantum mechanics. They mention the use of von Neumann (W*) algebras in quantum probability and suggest looking into books on C* and W* algebras. They also mention two related books and note the discrepancy in publication dates. The conversation also references a Wikipedia entry on *-algebra, which may be relevant to this topic.
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As I realized recently, the probability theory as used in quantum mechanics does not follow Kolmogorov's axioms. I am interested in a book that treats probability theory as it is done in quantum mechanics. Is this treated in books on quantum logic?

Any other good book on the mathematical foundations of quantum mechanics would be welcome.
 
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  • #2
The Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy said:
It is uncontroversial (though remarkable) that the formal apparatus of quantum mechanics reduces neatly to a generalization of classical probability in which the role played by a Boolean algebra of events in the latter is taken over by the “quantum logic” of projection operators on a Hilbert space.
...
The quantum-probabilistic formalism, as developed by von Neumann [1932], assumes that...

It seems these von Neumann (W*) algebras are the main invention in this new type of probability. They seem to be an extension of C* algebras; the two volumes by Kadison & Ringrose about operator algebras cover them. There are also separate volumes by Jacques Diximier on C* algebras and W* algebras.

I also looked into the probability side of it. I see two books that seem related to what you want:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/3642204376/?tag=pfamazon01-20
https://www.amazon.com/dp/354013915X/?tag=pfamazon01-20

It seems very strange to me, though, that the first one is from 2011 while the second is from 1985.
 
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  • #3
Also have a look here, here, and here.

Strangely, there is a wikipedia entry for *-algebra, it was created in 2009 and as yet has no references listed. But someone obviously wrote it, so this may be a direction that things will go (I guess).
 

1. What is Quantum Probability Theory?

Quantum Probability Theory is a mathematical framework used to model and analyze the probabilistic behavior of quantum systems. It combines elements of classical probability theory with the principles of quantum mechanics to provide a more accurate description of the randomness and uncertainty inherent in quantum systems.

2. How is Quantum Probability Theory different from classical probability theory?

The main difference between Quantum Probability Theory and classical probability theory is the way in which probabilities are calculated and interpreted. In classical probability, probabilities are seen as objective, fixed properties of a system, while in Quantum Probability Theory, probabilities are inherently uncertain and can only be described in terms of probabilities of different outcomes.

3. What are the applications of Quantum Probability Theory?

Quantum Probability Theory has a wide range of applications in fields such as quantum information theory, quantum computation, and quantum cryptography. It is also used in the study of quantum systems, such as atoms, molecules, and subatomic particles.

4. How does Quantum Probability Theory relate to the concept of superposition?

Quantum Probability Theory is closely related to the concept of superposition in quantum mechanics. Superposition refers to the ability of a quantum system to exist in multiple states at the same time, with each state having a certain probability of being observed. Quantum Probability Theory provides a mathematical framework for calculating and understanding these probabilities.

5. Can Quantum Probability Theory be used to predict the behavior of quantum systems?

Quantum Probability Theory can provide probabilistic predictions for the behavior of quantum systems, but it cannot predict the exact outcome of an individual measurement. This is due to the inherent randomness and uncertainty of quantum systems, as described by the principles of quantum mechanics. However, Quantum Probability Theory can be used to make statistical predictions about the behavior of a large number of quantum systems.

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