Do Bell experiments disprove local realism?

In summary, Local realism is a concept in physics that states that physical objects have definite properties at all times and that these properties are independent of observation or measurement. A Bell experiment is a type of experiment that tests the principles of quantum mechanics and local realism by measuring the correlation between entangled particles. These experiments challenge local realism by suggesting the existence of non-locality in the universe. However, they do not definitively disprove local realism and there are still ongoing debates about their implications for our understanding of the universe.
  • #1
SeoKyu
2
0
Why or why not?
 
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  • #2
If you define "local realism" as Bell, then yes. If not, then not.
 
  • #3
Although we have many threads on the this question, none of them have improved on vanhees's answer above:.

This thread is closed.
 

1. What is local realism?

Local realism is a concept in physics that states that physical objects have definite properties at all times and that these properties are independent of observation or measurement. It also suggests that there is no action at a distance, meaning that objects cannot influence each other instantaneously over large distances.

2. What is a Bell experiment?

A Bell experiment is a type of experiment that tests the principles of quantum mechanics and local realism. It involves two particles that are entangled and separated, and measurements are taken on each particle to determine if their properties are correlated, as predicted by quantum mechanics, or independent, as predicted by local realism.

3. How do Bell experiments challenge local realism?

Bell experiments typically show that the results of measurements on entangled particles are correlated, even when they are separated by large distances. This contradicts the predictions of local realism, which states that the particles cannot influence each other at a distance. Therefore, Bell experiments challenge the idea of local realism by suggesting that there may be some form of non-locality in the universe.

4. Do Bell experiments definitively disprove local realism?

No, Bell experiments do not definitively disprove local realism. While they provide evidence against local realism, some scientists argue that there may be loopholes in these experiments that could account for the observed correlations. Additionally, some theories, such as hidden variable theories, attempt to reconcile local realism with the results of Bell experiments.

5. What are the implications of Bell experiments for our understanding of the universe?

The implications of Bell experiments are still being debated among scientists. If local realism is ultimately disproven, it could lead to a better understanding of the fundamental nature of the universe and the role of quantum mechanics in describing it. It could also have practical applications in fields such as cryptography and quantum computing.

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