Could hidden dimensions help hidden variable theories ?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the potential role of hidden dimensions in the context of hidden variable theories and their compatibility with quantum mechanics. Participants explore whether extra unobserved dimensions could contribute to a hidden variable framework that aligns with quantum theory, particularly in relation to concepts like quantum entanglement.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants propose that hidden dimensions could be beneficial for developing a hidden variable theory that complies with quantum mechanics.
  • Others argue that unless these dimensions are "global," they may not assist in reconciling hidden variable theories with quantum predictions, referencing Bell's Theorem.
  • One participant notes that quantum entanglement appears to operate outside conventional time-space, suggesting a unique relationship with hidden dimensions.
  • Another participant asserts that the argument necessitating non-locality in hidden variable theories remains unchanged even with the introduction of additional curled-up spatial dimensions.
  • There is a discussion about the locality of quantum mechanics in multi-dimensional configuration space, with one participant expressing uncertainty about the implications of this locality and the potential mappings to observable spacetime.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the implications of hidden dimensions for hidden variable theories, with no consensus reached on whether such dimensions could effectively contribute to a compatible framework with quantum mechanics.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved complexities regarding the nature of locality in quantum mechanics, the definitions of hidden variables, and the specific characteristics of the proposed hidden dimensions.

Spinnor
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Could hidden dimensions help "hidden variable theories"?

Could extra unobserved dimensions be of use in finding a hidden variable type theory that also satisfied Quantum Theory?

Thanks for any help!
 
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Not unless those dimensions are somehow "global". According to Bell's Theorem:

No physical theory of local hidden variables can reproduce all of the predictions of quantum mechanics.
 


Spinnor said:
Could extra unobserved dimensions be of use in finding a hidden variable type theory that also satisfied Quantum Theory?

Thanks for any help!

quantum entanglement seems to, in some ways, operate "outside" (or unaffected by) time-space.
 


DrChinese said:
Not unless those dimensions are somehow "global". According to Bell's Theorem:

No physical theory of local hidden variables can reproduce all of the predictions of quantum mechanics.
Actually, QM is local in the multi-dimensional configuration space:
https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=285019
 


Spinnor said:
Could extra unobserved dimensions be of use in finding a hidden variable type theory that also satisfied Quantum Theory?

Thanks for any help!

The argument that would force a hidden variable theory to be non-local if they existed does not, to the best of knowledge, change in any way if you allow for extra curled up spatial dimensions.
 


Demystifier said:
Actually, QM is local in the multi-dimensional configuration space:
https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=285019

That is a very complex point. I would have to presume there is some kind of mapping from one to the other. Or perhaps a projection (from configuration space to our observable spacetime)? Anyway, I wouldn't have a clue as to where to begin on any of this side of things.

Although to be fair, I think non-local is usually taken to be in observable spacetime.
 

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