Physicists Demonstrate Quantum Mechanics Can Be Formulated Without Imaginary Numbers
A team of physicists has published findings challenging a long-standing assumption about quantum mechanics: that imaginary numbers are essential to the theory.
The research, conducted by scientists from Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf (HHU) in collaboration with the German Aerospace Center (DLR), demonstrates that quantum mechanics does not necessarily require formulation with complex numbers. According to their work published in Physical Review Letters, real numbers can serve as an alternative foundation for the mathematical framework of quantum theory.
Imaginary numbers—numbers that when squared produce negative results—have been considered a fundamental component of quantum mechanics since the theory's early development. The new research suggests this may be more a matter of mathematical convention than inherent necessity.
The American Physical Society has recognized the significance of these findings by featuring them as a "Highlight" in its Physics Magazine publication.