Are 'Observables' Considered a Valid Term in Quantum Mechanics?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the validity of the term "observables" in the context of quantum mechanics, specifically addressing its usage in literature and its recognition in language.

Discussion Character

  • Meta-discussion

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions whether "observables" is a valid plural form, noting familiarity with the singular "observable."
  • Another participant asserts that "observables" is commonly found in quantum mechanics textbooks.
  • A third participant draws a humorous analogy between "observables" and "vegetables," suggesting a similarity in their usage once one engages with quantum mechanics.
  • A later reply mentions that while "observables" appears frequently in quantum texts, it is not recognized by certain spell checkers.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the validity of the term "observables," with some affirming its usage in literature while others highlight discrepancies in spell checking.

TheCavortr
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Is ``OBSERVABLES'' a word? I know ``OBSERVABLE'' (singular is), but what about the plural?
 
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You find this plural in virtually any textbook of QM.
 
It's the same as VEGETABLE. Once you'll read some QM, you'll find certain similarities between the 2 words.

Daniel.
 
dextercioby said:
It's the same as VEGETABLE. Once you'll read some QM, you'll find certain similarities between the 2 words.

Daniel.

(Or between yourself and vegetables if you read too much of it! :wink: )

-Dan
 
I've seen it written many times in quantum texts, but neither my LaTex spell checker nor my e-mail spell checker appreciates the plural.
 

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