Stochastic particle annihilation: a relativistic model of quantum state reduction

A relativistic model of quantum state reduction involving a nonlinear stochastic extension of Schr\"odinger's equation is outlined. The eigenstates of the annihilation operator are chosen as the preferred basis onto which reduction occurs. These are the coherent states which saturate the bound of the Heisenberg uncertainty relation, exhibiting classical-like behavior. The quantum harmonic oscillator is studied in detail before generalizing to relativistic scalar quantum field theory. The infinite rates of increase in energy density which have plagued recent relativistic proposals of dynamical state reduction are absent in this model. This is because the state evolution equation does not drive particle creation from the vacuum. It is demonstrated how state reduction to a charge density basis can be induced in fermionic matter via an appropriate coupling to a bosonic field undergoing this mechanism