A Covariant Wave-Tensor Framework for Bohmian Mechanics on Classical Curved Spacetime: Lagrangian Structure and Post-Newtonian Predictions

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Authors: Paulo Guilherme Santos
Cited by: 1
References: 32

Abstract

We propose an exploratory framework for a Bohmian model of quantum matter propagating on a classical curved spacetime background. The gravitational sector is governed by classical Einstein field equations throughout; no quantisation of spacetime is attempted. The wave function emerges as the scalar contraction Ψ=ψνψν∈C of a complex-valued tensorial field ψμ, encoding quantum dynamics in a geometric object. The wave tensor interacts with spacetime via the stress–energy tensor Tμν, mediated by a real scalar field a of dimension volume, so that aTμνψμψν yields the correct potential energy. We derive a covariant Adapted Schrödinger Equation as the unique minimal covariant lift of the standard equation, justify it from four guiding principles, and verify three internal consistency checks. Under seven explicit approximations the framework reproduces the Schrödinger equation with Coulomb potential for the hydrogen atom. We also derive a dynamical equation for ψμ that entails the Adapted Schrödinger Equation by contraction. Two open problems are then resolved. First, a complete Lagrangian formulation is provided: a real-valued action for Ψ yields the Adapted Schrödinger Equation via the Euler–Lagrange equations; a separate action for ψμ, extended by a non-polynomial term, yields the full dynamical equation variationally. Second, two experimental predictions are derived. Expanding to first post-Newtonian order, the perturbation Hamiltonian has coefficients (3, 1) on the kinetic and potential operators; via the virial theorem these produce a coordinate-time blueshift, which after photon propagation yields the universal Einstein gravitational redshift δν/ν=Φ/c2, confirming consistency with the equivalence principle. The same kinetic coefficient independently predicts that free quantum wave packets spread more slowly by the fractional amount 3|Φ|/c2, a correction absent in standard non-relativistic quantum mechanics.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Quantum Mechanics and Applications Noncommutative and Quantum Gravity Theories Quantum Electrodynamics and Casimir Effect

Publication details

Journal / source
Symmetry
Publisher
MDPI AG
Volume
18
Issue
6
Pages
1016–1016
Publication date
12 June 2026
Language
EN