Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around the existence of un-entangled photons in quantum mechanics, particularly in the context of wave function collapse and entanglement with measurement apparatuses. Participants explore the implications of photon entanglement and the potential for photons to become un-entangled after measurement events.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory
- Debate/contested
- Conceptual clarification
Main Points Raised
- Some participants propose that after a measurement event, a photon becomes un-entangled from its twin photon, but question whether it simultaneously becomes entangled with another part of the universe or experimental apparatus.
- Others argue that the photon is typically entangled with the measurement apparatus, suggesting that if the twin photon has not been detected, entanglement persists between the apparatus and the partner photon.
- A participant presents two hypotheses regarding the timing of entanglement: (a) the photon becomes entangled with the apparatus upon detection and loses its entanglement with its twin, or (b) the photon is already entangled with the apparatus and becomes dis/un-entangled upon detection.
- One participant supports the second hypothesis, stating that the entanglement between the two photons remains intact even if one photon is destroyed, with subsequent entanglement occurring between the remaining photon and the measurement apparatus.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express differing views on the nature of photon entanglement and the implications of measurement, indicating that multiple competing perspectives remain without a clear consensus.
Contextual Notes
The discussion involves assumptions about the nature of wave function collapse and the definitions of entanglement and un-entanglement, which may not be universally agreed upon.