Entanglement and communication speed

In summary, entangled photons can react to each other instantaneously, but this does not allow for faster-than-light information transfer. This is because there can be no information transfer without a classical channel to communicate with. This concept is known as "spooky action at a distance" and has intrigued scientists, including Einstein. However, it is not possible to use this phenomenon to manipulate the polarization of photons and send information faster than the speed of light. For more information on "spooky action at a distance," you can refer to various sources, such as articles, interviews, and blog posts.
  • #1
mcjosep
35
0
I was just reading the new article that saying that people sent information through entangled photons, and that the photons were 10 miles apart. when entangled photons change they do so instantaneous of each other. so does this mean that even though they were ten miles apart they reacted to each other at the same time. how does this work, while still retaining that nothing can travel faster than the speed of light.
 
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  • #2
There can be no information transfer without a classical channel to communicate with. Therefore, no FTL information transfer is possible even with entanglement. Yes, the entangled particles may react "instantaneously" to the other being observed, but someone with only 1 of the entangled particles will never be able to see more than just random bits from it. You need to have information on both the particles to verify that they were in fact anti-correlated.
 
  • #3
The states change instantaneous. Even Einstein wondered about this instaneous change and he called it "spooky action at a distance".

But you can't use it to send information faster than the speed of light. That is because you cannot for example "force" the photon to have vertical polarization

More on "spooky action at a distance" can be found here:
1) http://whyfiles.org/shorties/133quantum_leap/
2) Wikipedia: Action at a distance
3) Spooky action and beyond: Interview with Anton Zeilinger
4) Spooky action at a distance? Blog post by Steve Luttrell
 

1. What is entanglement in relation to communication speed?

Entanglement refers to a phenomenon in quantum physics where two particles become connected in such a way that the state of one particle affects the state of the other, regardless of distance. In terms of communication speed, this means that information can be transmitted instantaneously between entangled particles, potentially allowing for faster communication than traditional methods.

2. How is entanglement used for communication?

Entanglement can be used for communication by encoding information onto one particle in an entangled pair, and then sending the other particle to a distant location. Any changes made to the first particle will be instantly reflected in the second particle, allowing for the transfer of information without the need for physical communication.

3. Is entanglement the same as teleportation?

No, entanglement and teleportation are two separate concepts in quantum mechanics. Entanglement allows for the transfer of information between particles, while teleportation involves the transfer of the quantum state of a particle to a distant location.

4. What are the potential limitations of using entanglement for communication?

One limitation is the distance over which entanglement can be maintained. The entangled particles must stay in close proximity in order for the communication to be effective. Additionally, entanglement can be disrupted by outside forces, making it difficult to maintain over long distances.

5. How does entanglement impact communication technology?

Entanglement has the potential to greatly impact communication technology by allowing for faster and more secure communication. It could also lead to the development of new technologies, such as quantum networks, that could revolutionize the way we communicate and transmit information.

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