Graduate Advanced models for the Stern-Gerlach experiment

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on advanced modeling techniques for the Stern-Gerlach experiment, emphasizing the limitations of basic quantum mechanics (QM) interpretations. Participants highlight the simplicity of initial modeling but express difficulty in addressing the wave function collapse mathematically. The conversation suggests that the measurement process lacks a rigorous axiom set, particularly regarding the collapse occurring at the Stern-Gerlach device. The POVM (Positive Operator-Valued Measure) framework is recommended for a more detailed analysis of measurement in this context.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of quantum mechanics principles, specifically wave function collapse.
  • Familiarity with the Stern-Gerlach experiment and its classical interpretations.
  • Knowledge of measurement theory in quantum mechanics.
  • Basic comprehension of POVM (Positive Operator-Valued Measure) frameworks.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the mathematical foundations of wave function collapse in quantum mechanics.
  • Explore the application of POVM in quantum measurement theory.
  • Study advanced quantum mechanics texts that cover the Stern-Gerlach experiment in depth.
  • Investigate the implications of measurement theory on quantum state preparation and manipulation.
USEFUL FOR

Physicists, quantum mechanics students, and researchers interested in advanced measurement theories and the implications of the Stern-Gerlach experiment on quantum state behavior.

A. Neumaier
Science Advisor
Insights Author
Messages
8,714
Reaction score
4,811
Killtech said:
i cannot find much advanced stuff on Stern-Gerlach. The basic modelling of the experiment in QM you were referring to is in itself pretty simple and i do understand it. And I also understand how the resulting superposition of spin up/down states maps to the experimental outcome using the classic QM interpretation/measurement mechanics. [...]
But when it comes to talking about the collapse of the wave function this simplistic handling is at the range of validity. To begin within that framework the measurement is not well defined from a mathematical perspective – or at least I couldn’t find any strict axiom set from which one could derive that the measurement (or rather collapse or equivalent) does or does not happen directly at the SG device (please correct me if I’m wrong).
A detailed discussion of measurement in the Stern-Gerlach experiment can be given in the POVM setting; see this post.
 
  • Like
Likes dextercioby

Similar threads

Graduate How does the thermal interpretation explain Stern-Gerlach?
  • · Replies 94 ·
4
Replies
94
Views
15K
Undergrad When was the formula for the Stern-Gerlach experiment found?
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
Graduate Quantitative description of successive Stern-Gerlach measurements
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
Undergrad Making the wave observable in the double-slit experiment
  • · Replies 105 ·
4
Replies
105
Views
8K
Undergrad Who was the first to make a Stern-Gerlach experiment with two magnets?
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
2K
Undergrad Question about Stern-Gerlach experiment
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
3K
Graduate Has the 2-stage Stern-Gerlach experiment been performed?
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
High School Spin collapse in a magnetic field
  • · Replies 17 ·
Replies
17
Views
2K
High School Conservation of Total Spin in the Stern Gerlach Experiment
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Undergrad Rigorous: Where is the Quantum System Prior to Measurement?
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
2K