Another double slit question - noob

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the double slit experiment in quantum physics, specifically focusing on the nature of wave function collapse and the role of observation or measurement. Participants explore concepts related to quantum decoherence, consciousness, and the implications for understanding quantum mechanics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions whether the act of conscious measurement collapses the wave function or if it is merely the interaction of light with its environment that causes this collapse.
  • Another participant asserts that consciousness is not involved, suggesting that interaction with the environment leads to wave function collapse, referencing quantum decoherence.
  • There is a counterpoint that decoherence does not produce a definite outcome and raises the possibility that consciousness may be necessary for collapse, with one participant expressing a belief in this view.
  • Further discussion highlights that while decoherence prevents outcomes where particles go through both slits, it does not resolve the measurement problem, which concerns how outcomes are determined.
  • One participant mentions that if the full environment is considered, both slits are effectively traversed by the particle, implying that the interference pattern remains but is obscured.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the role of consciousness in wave function collapse and the implications of decoherence. There is no consensus on whether consciousness is necessary for collapse or if environmental interaction suffices.

Contextual Notes

Participants acknowledge limitations in their understanding and terminology, indicating that the discussion is exploratory and may depend on various interpretations of quantum mechanics.

lyncsta
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another double slit question - noob :(

Hi guys, I never officially studied physics so my knowledge on the topic is limited.

My understanding of quantum physics in relation to the double slit experiment is the following:
When you only observe the end result of light, it appears as if it interferes with itself, suggesting its a wave. But when you observe light mid-travel, it collapses into a particle.

My question: Is it the act of conscious measurement that collapses the wave, or is it simply the fact the light has left a "mark", Regardless of conscious observers or not.

I understand my terminology may be incorrect, and I might be missing some fundamental information. But, please give it a crack.

I would appreciate answers in direct response to my question, and on the broader sense of quantum physics.
 
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lyncsta said:
My question: Is it the act of conscious measurement that collapses the wave, or is it simply the fact the light has left a "mark", Regardless of conscious observers or not.

There's no consciousness involved; it's that the light has interacted with the environment around it, or as you say, "left a mark". If you google for "quantum decoherence" you'll find a bunch of interesting stuff.
 
Decoherence doesn't produce a definite outcome, and it may well be consciousness is necessary. I don't know how Nugatory can rule it out.
I am currently working on the delayed-choice entanglement swapping experiment and Ghirardi's thought experiment in his book 'Sneaking a Look at God's Cards' to try and pin point where collapse occurs.

I myself am a believer in the consciousness causes collapse, but very few associate themselves with that solution to the measurement problem. Thus I'm limited to those I can contact for discussion over the topic.
 
StevieTNZ said:
Decoherence doesn't produce a definite outcome, and it may well be consciousness is necessary.
Decoherence doesn't produce a specific outcome (the particle may still go through one slit or the other) but it does preclude all the outcomes in which the particle can be said to go through both slits - and it does so without ever invoking any consciousness anywhere.
 
If you take the full environment into account, then both slits the photon (or whatever particle) goes through.

The interference pattern is still present, except it is hidden.
 
I should add that although decoherence does not solve the measurement problem, if you have two terms that are effectively mixtures, then the particle must have gone through one or the other slit. Then you have no measurement problem. But as admitted, decoherence does not solve it, therefore the system is in a superposition of going through both slits.

The measurement problem is not concerned with what outcome arises; its about how that outcome came about.
 

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