Quantum scattering theory in light of an exactly solvable model with rearrangement collisions

Abstract

We present an exactly solvable quantum field theory which allows rearrangement collisions. We solve the model in the relevant sectors and demonstrate the orthonormality and completeness of the solutions, and construct the S-matrix. In light of the exact solutions constructed, we discuss various issues and assumptions in quantum scattering theory, including the isometry of the Möller wave matrix, the normalization and completeness of asymptotic states, and the nonorthogonality of basis states. We show that these common assertions are not obtained in this model. We suggest a general formalism for scattering theory which overcomes these and other shortcomings and limitations of the existing formalisms in the literature.