Aharonov-Bohm Effect—Quantum Effects on Charged Particles in Field-Free Regions

The Aharonov-Bohm effect is relatively little known, but it poses fundamental questions in quantum theory. It concerns physical effects on charged particles in field-free regions. The present paper provides an over-all critical review and commentary on the literature of the Aharonov-Bohm effect. The two fundamental questions raised by the effect concern the role of the force concept in quantum mechanics, and the localizability of physical effects principle. A recent letter from Professor Bohm concerning his evaluation of the significance of the effect is included in the Appendix.