Wavefunction Collapse: Ideas & Scenario Analysis

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the concept of wavefunction collapse in quantum mechanics, specifically challenging the notion that it requires observation by a conscious entity. Tim proposes that wavefunction collapse can occur through interaction, or "touching," between particles. He illustrates this with a scenario involving a particle with a wavefunction represented by four spikes, suggesting two outcomes based on interaction with a measuring particle. Bill clarifies that wavefunction collapse is related to entanglement and transitions from superposition to a mixed state, referencing Leonard Susskind's book for further reading.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of quantum mechanics principles
  • Familiarity with wavefunction and superposition concepts
  • Knowledge of particle entanglement
  • Basic grasp of mixed states in quantum systems
NEXT STEPS
  • Read "Quantum Mechanics: The Theoretical Minimum" by Leonard Susskind
  • Explore the concept of quantum entanglement in detail
  • Investigate the mathematical framework of wavefunctions and their collapse
  • Study the implications of measurement in quantum mechanics
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Students and professionals in physics, particularly those interested in quantum mechanics, wavefunction behavior, and the philosophical implications of measurement in quantum systems.

tim1608
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Hi Everyone

I am not sure of what exactly happens when a wavefunction collapses but I have some ideas about which I would be grateful for your thoughts.

Firstly, it is often said that wavefunctions collapse when they are "observed" or "measured". To be honest, I do not think that wavefunction collapse depends upon being "observed" by a conscious, cognitive, multicellular organism. I think that it is much simpler than that. I think that the wavefunction of a particle can collapse when it is in some way "touched" buy another particle. What this "touching" exactly means I don't really know but I would like to know if the people on this forum think I am on the right track here.

Imagine a simplified scenario of a particle whose wavefunction consists of four "spikes" of equal length in four positions. This means that the particle has a 1/4 probability of being in each position. Now imagine that another particle (a "measuring" particle) "touches" one of the four "spikes". As I see it, this can have the following two possible results:

1. The "measuring" particle has a 1/4 probability of receiving a "reply" from the wavefunction. If this happens then the wavefunction completely collapses and the particle being "measured" definitely is (or was) in the position of the spike which was "touched".

2. The "measuring" particle has a 3/4 probability of not receiving a "reply" from the wavefunction. If this happens then the "spike" which was "touched" dissapears and redistributes itself to the remaining three "spikes". This is a partial collapse of the wavefunction.

I would be very grateful if anyone could let me know if I am right of wrong here.

Thank you very much.

Kind regards

Tim
 
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tim1608 said:
I think that the wavefunction of a particle can collapse when it is in some way "touched" buy another particle.

Sort of.

It's when it becomes entangled with it. Technically it converts it from a superposition to a mixed state.

Susskinds QM book gives a good look at the detail of this:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/0465036678/?tag=pfamazon01-20

Thanks
Bill
 
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