Double slit experiment on a moving train

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the implications of performing the double slit experiment on a moving train, exploring concepts of simultaneity, the behavior of light, and the effects of relativistic physics. Participants examine how different observers might perceive the experiment and whether this leads to contradictions in the results.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant proposes a scenario where a photon is fired towards a double slit apparatus on a moving train, questioning how different observers perceive the timing of the photon passing through the slits and hitting the detector.
  • Another participant asserts that simultaneity is meaningless between different observers, emphasizing that two events can be simultaneous for one observer but not for another.
  • A participant expresses uncertainty about the original question and suggests that length contraction might resolve the issue of simultaneity in the context of the double slit experiment.
  • One participant states that the phase of a light wave is a relativistic invariant, implying that measurement results based on phase will be consistent across different frames.
  • Another participant questions the logic behind the idea that light could exist in two states at once due to the lack of simultaneity, arguing that the scenario is classical and does not require treating light as a particle.
  • Concerns are raised about the implications of turning off the detector in the double slit experiment and whether this could lead to contradictions regarding the photon’s behavior.
  • Several participants challenge the notion that perspectives from different observers can be reconciled in a single framework, emphasizing the distinct nature of each observer's reference frame.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express disagreement on the implications of simultaneity and the interpretation of the double slit experiment under relativistic conditions. There is no consensus on whether the proposed scenario leads to contradictions or how to properly frame the questions being asked.

Contextual Notes

Participants note limitations in understanding the implications of simultaneity and the behavior of light in different reference frames. The discussion reflects varying interpretations of relativistic effects and their relevance to quantum mechanics.

  • #31
Yes, that was how I understood the question also, particularly given that this was posted to the relativity forum rather than the QM forum.
 
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  • #32
DaleSpam said:
If you want to learn, then simplify. Don't deliberately add unnecessary complexity. You will only confuse yourself and make your own learning more difficult. Please decide which topic you want to discuss. The first belongs here (which is why I assumed that was the question you actually wanted to discuss), and the second would be better in the QM forum. But you shouldn't try to discuss both at the same time.

I find that as I learn Physics, I often try do exactly what you dissuade the OP from doing. I always thought it was a good way to get a deeper understanding of both of the admixed concepts.

Fortunately or unfortunately, that is the way my mind works. I take knowledge from one area and try to see what sort of conclusions I can reach by applying the concepts to another area of study.

Of course, taking a misunderstanding in one area and applying it to another does not work. But it may well illuminate the original source of misunderstanding in stark detail.

So I think that the admixture of concepts can be very valuable, even when (especially when?) it results in the identification of misconceptions.
 
  • #33
In my experience that type of learning is not compatible with an internet forum as the medium for learning. Similarly, the Socratic method is also an effective teaching method face-to-face, but I have never seen it work successfully here.

If you and the OP wish to learn that way then, in my experience, PF will not be able to help.
 
  • #34
Thanks for the thoughtful reply. I think that there is merit in your views.

I recently read the posting on properly formed questions that was in somebody's sig, and it offers good methods of obtaining satisfying answers.
 

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