Dynamics in a Quantum Superposition

In summary, the conversation discusses the dynamics of the deterministic Schroedinger Equation while it is in a unitary state before collapse. The question is whether it is possible for the Big Bang and evolution of stars and planets to occur while everything is in a superposition. Physicist Wigner proposed that consciousness causes the collapse of the wave function, and before life begins on Earth, the universe is in a state of superposition. After life reaches a certain threshold, the wave function of the Earth and its surroundings finally collapse. It is unclear if the Schroedinger Equation allows for the evolution of a solar system while it is still unitary. The purpose of Wigner's proposal is to explain how consciousness affects the collapse of the wave function.
  • #1
Varon
548
1
How much dynamics can occur in the deterministic Schroedinger Equation in its evolution while it is in unitary state (before collapse)? For example. Is it possible for the Big Bang and evolution of stars to solar system and planets to occur while everything is inside a superposition (that doesn't involve Many Worlds but just as superposition of possibilities)? I'm trying to analyze the physicist Wigner who proposed that consciousness caused collapse of the wave function. Before life begins on earth. He seems to be saying that the universe is in a state of superposition. After life reaches a certain theshold. It finally collapsed the wave function of the Earth and the surrounding. Is this possible? Does the Schroedinger Equations allows for instance the evolution of a solar system while it is still unitary and before the wave function collapse? Or is it not possible? Why then did this physicist Wigner propose it? I'm somewhat confused by all this. Hope someone can clarify once and for all. Thanks.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Varon said:
How much dynamics can occur in the deterministic Schroedinger Equation in its evolution while it is in unitary state (before collapse)? For example. Is it possible for the Big Bang and evolution of stars to solar system and planets to occur while everything is inside a superposition (that doesn't involve Many Worlds but just as superposition of possibilities)? I'm trying to analyze the physicist Wigner who proposed that consciousness caused collapse of the wave function. Before life begins on earth. He seems to be saying that the universe is in a state of superposition. After life reaches a certain theshold. It finally collapsed the wave function of the Earth and the surrounding. Is this possible? Does the Schroedinger Equations allows for instance the evolution of a solar system while it is still unitary and before the wave function collapse? Or is it not possible? Why then did this physicist Wigner propose it? I'm somewhat confused by all this. Hope someone can clarify once and for all. Thanks.

I still can't imagine how dynamics occur in the Schrodinger Equation. When it is said that it can evolve deterministicly, does it mean unmeasured quantum objects can have dynamics. Wigner proposed our consciousness is what collapse the wave function. So in a distant galaxy without consciousness, the entire galaxy is in superposition. How can stars and planets evolve when there is no definite positions at all inside the superposition? Anyone got an idea?
 

1. What is a quantum superposition?

A quantum superposition is a fundamental principle in quantum mechanics where a particle or system can exist in multiple states simultaneously until it is observed or measured. This means that the particle is in a combination of all possible states at the same time, rather than being in a single definite state.

2. How does dynamics work in a quantum superposition?

In a quantum superposition, the dynamics are described by the Schrödinger equation, which governs how the wavefunction of a particle evolves over time. This equation takes into account all possible states of the particle and how they interact with each other.

3. Can we observe a quantum superposition?

No, we cannot directly observe a quantum superposition. When a measurement is made, the superposition collapses into one definite state, so we can only indirectly infer the existence of a superposition through the results of measurements and experiments.

4. How does entanglement play a role in dynamics in a quantum superposition?

Entanglement is a phenomenon where two or more particles become connected in a way that their states are dependent on each other, regardless of the distance between them. In a quantum superposition, entanglement can affect the dynamics of the particles, leading to non-local interactions and correlations.

5. What are the potential applications of understanding dynamics in a quantum superposition?

Understanding dynamics in a quantum superposition is crucial for advancing technologies such as quantum computing, quantum cryptography, and quantum sensing. It also has implications for understanding the behavior of matter at the subatomic scale and could potentially lead to new discoveries and innovations in various fields of science.

Similar threads

B Question about quantum superposition
    • Quantum Physics
Replies
2
Views
912
A Can particles appear and disappear "with" a cause?
    • Quantum Physics
Replies
1
Views
621
B The superposition of a photon
    • Quantum Physics
Replies
12
Views
1K
I Quantum computation and entropy
    • Quantum Physics
2
Replies
39
Views
2K
I Is this system a superposition?
    • Quantum Physics
Replies
25
Views
2K
B Extremely elementary questions about QM
    • Quantum Physics
Replies
24
Views
1K
B Does the bomb experiment do a measurement?
    • Quantum Physics
Replies
7
Views
995
B Description of isolated macroscopic systems in quantum mechanics
    • Quantum Physics
2
Replies
48
Views
2K
A Wave Function Collapse and Thermodynamic Irreversible Processes
    • Quantum Physics
Replies
4
Views
839
A Quantum superposition: Is a problem of space-time worldview?
    • Quantum Physics
Replies
1
Views
592

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top