Is the unobservable universe free from quantum indeterminism?

In summary, at the Schrodinger's equation level, quantum mechanics is deterministic but becomes probabilistic when measurements and wavefunction collapse occur. The portion of the universe outside the particle horizon may be free from quantum indeterminacy since we cannot perform measurements on it. However, entanglement between the observable and unobservable universe can still cause wavefunction collapse. The validity of this assumption is interpretation-dependent. At a more exotic level, the universe may be completely deterministic without intelligent life forms, but this is also interpretation-dependent. The unobservable universe is known to be unknowable, and without the ability to perform experiments there, any discussion of its physics becomes purely philosophical.
  • #1
petergreat
267
4
At the Schrodinger's equation level, quantum mechanics is completely deterministic. The probabilistic nature of QM only kicks in when measurements and wavefunction collapse take place. So does this mean that the portion of the universe outside the particle horizon is free from quantum indeterminacy, since we cannot perform measurements on it?

The only problem I see is that if entanglement (due to causal decoupling from inflation) between observable and unobservable universe exists, then measurements on the observable universe can cause wavefunction collapse in the unobservable universe. However, the assumption is that quantum non-locality can penetrate the barrier of GR causal separation. Is this generally considered valid?

At a more exotic level, can we claim that the universe would be completely deterministic if there were no intelligent life forms, because no measurement would ever takes place? I suppose the answer to this question is interpretation-dependent?
 
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  • #2
As you say, the answers to your questions are interpretation dependent.
 
  • #3
Unobservable universe is a known unknowable.
 
  • #4
Physics is related to experiments. If we cannot even do an experiment in the unobservable universe, why should we talk about the physics there? I think it will only be a philosophical question then.
 

1. What is the unobservable universe?

The unobservable universe refers to the vast expanse of the universe that cannot be currently observed or measured by humans. This includes parts of the universe that are too far away for light to reach us, as well as regions that are hidden behind objects or structures that block our view.

2. What is quantum indeterminism?

Quantum indeterminism is a fundamental principle of quantum mechanics that states that certain physical properties, such as the position and momentum of particles, cannot be precisely determined at the same time. This is due to the probabilistic nature of quantum mechanics, where the behavior of particles is described by wave functions rather than definite values.

3. How do we know if the unobservable universe is free from quantum indeterminism?

The answer to this question is currently unknown, as we are unable to observe or measure the unobservable universe. However, theories such as the Many Worlds Interpretation suggest that all possible outcomes of quantum events occur simultaneously in parallel universes, eliminating the need for indeterminism. Other theories, such as the Copenhagen Interpretation, propose that indeterminism is an inherent property of the universe.

4. Can we ever observe the unobservable universe?

While we are currently unable to observe or measure the unobservable universe, technological advancements in the future may allow us to do so. For example, the development of more powerful telescopes and instruments may allow us to see further into the universe and gather data from currently unobservable regions.

5. Why is the question of quantum indeterminism in the unobservable universe important?

The question of quantum indeterminism in the unobservable universe is important because it has implications for our understanding of the fundamental nature of the universe. It also has practical applications in fields such as quantum computing and could potentially impact our ability to predict and control future events. Additionally, exploring this question can lead to new insights and discoveries in the field of physics.

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