Double Slit - Multiple Observers

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the implications of conducting a double slit experiment with two observers, each receiving conflicting results regarding the path of an electron. Observer A reports the electron passed through slit A, while Observer B claims it passed through slit B. The conversation raises questions about the nature of observation in quantum mechanics, specifically whether differing results from observers can coexist and how the experiment designer influences outcomes. Ultimately, it concludes that both observers would likely see the same interference pattern, leading to a consensus that the detectors or experimenter may be at fault.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of quantum mechanics principles, particularly wave-particle duality.
  • Familiarity with the double slit experiment and its significance in quantum theory.
  • Knowledge of observer effect in quantum physics.
  • Basic grasp of experimental design in scientific research.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the implications of the observer effect in quantum mechanics.
  • Explore variations of the double slit experiment with multiple observers.
  • Study the role of measurement in quantum mechanics and its impact on outcomes.
  • Investigate the philosophical interpretations of quantum mechanics, such as the Copenhagen interpretation.
USEFUL FOR

Physicists, quantum mechanics students, and anyone interested in the philosophical implications of observation in scientific experiments.

Zzzfilesk1
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I'm sorry if this has already been completed or already discussed. If so, just link me to answer the question, thanks.

What if we conduct a double slit experiment with two observers?

We use a detector to see which slit the electron passes through.

Observer A receives results that the electron passed through slit A.

Observer B receives results that the electron passed through slit B.

We can give one observer automatically the incorrect result OR simply name what is slit A to observer 1 as Slit B to observer 2.

Vice versa. Two observers getting different results, automatically. The experiment designer has no idea who is correct as far as which slit the electron passed through. It could be Observer A or Observer B.

Would both observers report different results? It went through A? No! it went through B!
OR would both observers report wave patterns! Does the experiment designer control the outcome?

Has this experiment been done? An experiment with a test on more than one observer?

Does one observer trump the next? Does the experiment designer trump the test subjects? Is conscious creation > observation?

--Kurt Smetana
 
Physics news on Phys.org
QM is weird, but not that weird. Both observers will see the same pattern on the screen and will rapidly conclude that either the experimenter is lying to them or the detectors are malfunctioning.
 

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