Is the wave function collapse asymmetrical in time?

In summary, the conversation discusses the hypothetical scenario of reversing time after a wave function has collapsed and a particle has been found at a certain location. The main question is whether the wave function would uncollapse and the particle would appear at a different location, or if it would still be at its original location. The conclusion is that according to the Copenhagen interpretation, the collapse is not time-reversible, meaning the past events would not happen in the same way.
  • #1
IvicaPhysics
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Suppose the Copenhagen interpretation is correct. And we reverse time, what happens. If a wave function has collapsed, and we found a particle somewhere. Now, I turn back time( just hypothetically), what would happen? Would the wave function uncollapse and would the particle then appear at some other location?
THIS IS MY REALLY BURNING QUESTION:
Let's suppose it does uncolapse, where then would we find the particle.
Before experiment: Particle is at place A
After experiment: The wave function has collapsed and the particle is now at location B
Now I turn back time and...
The wave function uncollapses( let's say it does), and it collapses again but before the experiment, since time is flowing backwards. Before the experiment we measured the particle so in time reverse that would collapse it. Would the particle again be at location A, or some new location C, because again it is wave of probbability, so is it certain that it will appear at A?
If we turn back time after a wave function collapse will the past happen the same way?
 
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  • #2
The instaneous and non-unitary collapse implied by the Copenhagen interpretation is not time-reversible.
 
  • #3
  • Nugatory said:
    The instaneous and non-unitary collapse implied by the Copenhagen interpretation is not time-reversible.
    Thank you :)
 

Related to Is the wave function collapse asymmetrical in time?

1. What is the wave function collapse?

The wave function collapse is a fundamental concept in quantum mechanics, which describes the behavior of particles on a quantum level. It refers to the collapse of the particle's wave function, which is a mathematical description of its probability distribution, into a specific state during a measurement or observation.

2. Is the wave function collapse a reversible process?

No, the wave function collapse is not a reversible process. According to the laws of quantum mechanics, the collapse of the wave function is an irreversible event. Once a measurement is made and the wave function collapses, the particle's state is determined and cannot be reversed.

3. What role does time play in the wave function collapse?

Time plays a crucial role in the wave function collapse. The collapse of the wave function is instantaneous, happening in a single moment in time. However, the state of the particle after the collapse evolves over time according to the Schrodinger equation.

4. Is the wave function collapse symmetrical in time?

No, the wave function collapse is not symmetrical in time. According to the laws of physics, time is a symmetric concept, meaning that the laws of nature are the same whether time is moving forward or backward. However, the collapse of the wave function is an asymmetrical process, as it only occurs in one direction of time.

5. What is the significance of the asymmetry of the wave function collapse in time?

The asymmetry of the wave function collapse in time has significant implications for our understanding of the fundamental laws of physics. It challenges our traditional concepts of time and raises questions about the arrow of time and the nature of causality. It also has practical applications in quantum computing and communication technologies.

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