EPR paradox and prediction time

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the EPR paradox and its implications for measurement in quantum mechanics, particularly focusing on the relationship between measurements of entangled particles A and B, the role of simultaneity, and the effects of relativity. Participants explore theoretical aspects, measurement problems, and interpretations of quantum mechanics.

Discussion Character

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

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests that measuring the position of particle A leads to a prediction of particle B's position, but with uncertainty due to wave-function evolution and relativistic considerations.
  • Another participant notes that the original EPR paper did not account for relativity and did not propose a specific measurement technique.
  • A participant raises a concern about the uncertainty principle affecting the timing of when particles A and B arrive at their respective measurement points.
  • It is argued that position is not a conserved quantity, which complicates the ability to predict measurements of particle B based on measurements of particle A.
  • Some participants assert that the order of measurements does not affect the states of A and B, indicating a lack of frame-dependent considerations.
  • A later reply discusses the tension between quantum mechanics and relativity, particularly in the context of ontic versus epistemic interpretations of quantum mechanics, referencing the work of Lee Smolin.
  • Concerns are raised about the implications of hidden-variable theories and the relativity of simultaneity in quantum mechanics.
  • Participants express interest in how epistemic interpretations of quantum mechanics theoretically handle the shared wavefunction of entangled particles.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express multiple competing views on the implications of the EPR paradox, the role of simultaneity in measurements, and the interpretations of quantum mechanics. The discussion remains unresolved with no consensus reached.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations regarding assumptions about simultaneity, the nature of measurements, and the implications of different interpretations of quantum mechanics. The discussion highlights the complexity of these issues without resolving them.

  • #31
We are talking about different things. If my answer is not helpful, forget it.
 
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  • #32
I think it points to a discrepancy between the description in words and in formulas in the epr paradox.

Epr considers two particles interacting, hence at the same place in the text. Then it describes this state with the wavefunction delta(x1+x2). In the latter the 2 particles are not at the same place so imo there lack a time evolution to describe the system between the pair creation and the measurement.
 

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