A newbies question on randomness.

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SUMMARY

This discussion centers on the concepts of predictability and randomness in quantum mechanics. Participants emphasize that quantum particles, such as electrons, exhibit behavior that is fundamentally probabilistic rather than deterministic. The notion of total predictability is challenged, particularly in the context of reaching absolute zero, which is deemed impossible. The conversation concludes that randomness is intrinsic to quantum systems, necessitating statistical treatment for measurements.

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  • Understanding of quantum mechanics principles
  • Familiarity with statistical analysis in experimental physics
  • Knowledge of the concept of absolute zero and its implications
  • Basic grasp of particle behavior and measurement uncertainty
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  • Research quantum mechanics and the uncertainty principle
  • Explore statistical methods in experimental physics
  • Study the implications of absolute zero on particle behavior
  • Investigate the concept of randomness in quantum theory
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Students of physics, researchers in quantum mechanics, and anyone interested in the philosophical implications of predictability and randomness in scientific measurements.

Owen-
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Hi everoyne,

Ill be honest - I don't even begin to understand anything about quantum at the moment - but the question I have relates to it (or so i have heard.) Can you help me out?

I think I know bits about how you can't tell exactly what a (particle/electron/small thing) is doing or where its going to be. Is there no way conceivable to understand what it will do? Does everything not need a cause and effect?

Main questions:

1. Can anything be totally predictable?
2. Can anything be totally random?

physically I am assuming if absolute zero was reched (i know impossible) total predictability could possibly occur (no?)

is there any state of totally randomness?

Sorry if that's a bit of a mess atm - I am stuck for time but ill be bcak to clarify soon :)

Thanks for your help..
Owen
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Ask experimentalists. They will tell you that any variable "measurement" needs statistical treatment so any definite number is a result of averaging many dispersed measurements.
 

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