Comparing the wavefunction of single and entangled particle

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the wavefunction of single and entangled particles, exploring how the presence of one particle affects the wavefunction of another. Participants examine concepts related to quantum mechanics, including entanglement, interactions between particles, and the implications of path integrals in quantum theory.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants inquire about how the wavefunction of one particle is influenced by a nearby particle and whether this interaction can occur without entanglement.
  • Others argue that the dynamics of an isolated pair of particles can be described by their Hamiltonian, emphasizing that entanglement arises from interaction rather than being a prerequisite for it.
  • A participant discusses Feynman's path integral approach, questioning how the existence of a second particle alters the calculation of paths for the first particle and whether this leads to entanglement.
  • One participant suggests that self-interaction must be considered in calculations, particularly in high-energy scenarios involving particle-antiparticle pairs.
  • Another participant asserts that any interaction between particles will result in entanglement, using the example of a hydrogen atom to illustrate how the wavefunction of an electron is affected by the nucleus.
  • Several participants clarify that in quantum mechanics, the wavefunction belongs to the entire system rather than individual particles, raising questions about the implications of this perspective on entanglement.
  • There is a discussion about the definition of entanglement and how it relates to the combination of wavefunctions of subsystems.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the nature of interactions between particles and the implications for entanglement. While some agree on the fundamental principles of quantum mechanics, there is no consensus on the specifics of how wavefunctions interact or the conditions under which entanglement occurs.

Contextual Notes

Limitations in understanding arise from the complexity of quantum interactions, the definitions of wavefunctions, and the nuances of entanglement. Participants acknowledge the need for further exploration of these concepts without resolving the underlying uncertainties.

  • #31
bhobba said:
Your reasoning escapes me.

The ignorance ensemble applies to QM and QFT. Quantum gravity, as the link I gave explains, is a perfectly good theory up to a cut-off. What's beyond the cut-off - who knows. It may necessitate a revision of the other stuff - but as of now there is no issue.

Thanks
Bill

QM and QFT are just effective field theory.. their spacetime are fixed. In general relativistic quantum field theory, the fields interacts with geometry. So before wavefunction collapse or even EPR particle entanglements, won't the geometry be able to track the fields or particles while still in pure states?
 
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  • #32
lucas_ said:
general relativistic quantum field theory, the fields interacts with geometry

Don't know that one - have you a paper?

And if you don't can we stick to conventional physics?

Thanks
Bill
 

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