- #1
Glenn
When discussing quantum mechanics, what constitutes an observation?
-Glenn
-Glenn
Originally posted by Glenn
When discussing quantum mechanics, what constitutes an observation?
-Glenn
Generally, you consider closed systems. Anything inside that closed system that is made to affect something outside the system (therefore making it no longer "closed") is a measurement.
Originally posted by Glenn
Can a subatomic particle, atom, molecule, or larger cause the collapse of its own wave function?
-Glenn
A quantum mechanics (QM) observation is when a system is measured or observed, causing it to collapse from a state of superposition to a definite state. This can also be referred to as the wave function collapse. The following are five frequently asked questions about what constitutes a QM observation.
The observer plays a crucial role in a QM observation as they are the one who measures or observes the system. This measurement causes the wave function to collapse and the system to be in a definite state. Without an observer, the system would remain in a state of superposition.
No, a QM observation does not necessarily have to involve conscious observation. Any interaction or measurement with the system can cause the wave function collapse. This means that even inanimate objects can act as observers in a QM observation.
No, a QM observation is irreversible. Once the wave function collapses and the system is in a definite state, it cannot be reversed back to a state of superposition. This is known as the collapse postulate in quantum mechanics.
In classical observation, the act of measuring does not affect the system being measured. However, in QM observation, the very act of measuring or observing causes the system to change. This is due to the probabilistic nature of quantum mechanics and the collapse of the wave function.
Yes, there are limitations to what can be observed in QM. The Heisenberg uncertainty principle states that certain properties of a system, such as position and momentum, cannot be simultaneously known with certainty. This means that there will always be a degree of uncertainty in our observations of quantum systems.