Bell's Theorem: Griffiths' Probability Density & Indeterministic QM

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on Bell's Theorem as presented in "Introduction to Quantum Mechanics (2nd Edition)" by David J. Griffiths, specifically regarding the use of the probability density function \rho(\lambda) for hidden variables. The participants highlight the apparent contradiction in using probability to describe a hidden variable intended to render quantum mechanics deterministic. The conversation suggests that understanding this concept requires further exploration of alternative literature, such as the work by Blumel, which clarifies the nuances of Bell's Theorem and the implications of hidden variable theory.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Bell's Theorem and its implications in quantum mechanics
  • Familiarity with probability density functions, specifically \rho(\lambda)
  • Knowledge of deterministic versus indeterministic theories in quantum mechanics
  • Basic comprehension of hidden variable theories in quantum physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Read "Introduction to Quantum Mechanics (2nd Edition)" by David J. Griffiths for foundational concepts
  • Explore Blumel's literature on Bell's Theorem for alternative explanations
  • Investigate the implications of hidden variable theories on quantum mechanics
  • Study the statistical distribution of hidden variables and its effects on quantum measurements
USEFUL FOR

Students of quantum mechanics, physicists interested in the foundations of quantum theory, and researchers exploring the implications of Bell's Theorem and hidden variable theories.

touqra
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I am referring to Introduction to Quantum Mechanics (2nd Edition) by David J. Griffiths, page 425 on Bell's Theorem.

Griffiths used a parameter, called \rho(\lambda) as the probability density for the hidden variable.

What I don't understand is that the hidden variable was suppose to make the theory deterministic, or specifically to show that quantum mechanics as an indeterministic theory is incomplete.
What is the reason that he can use probability to describe the hidden variable? Isn't this a contradiction?
 
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This test of QM involves making many measurements on systems that have been "identically prepared". The idea of HV theory is that there might be some unknown property of the system (labeled by \lambda) that determines exactly what will happen in that particular system, and that \lambda varies from system to system. Thus the supposedly "identical preparation" of different systems is actually not identical, but depends in some way on the precise details and prior history of each system. This gives a statistical distribution for \lambda which is called \rho(\lambda).

EDIT: just noticed that the OP is from 2005!
 
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