Has Wave Function Collapse Been Verified Experimentally ?

In summary, in QM theory, entangled particles or photons can be in superposition for spin or polarization angles. When one of the pair is measured, the other particle's wave function collapses into a definite state according to conservation laws. However, Bell Inequality violations suggest that predetermined values do not exist. There are experiments available through Google that have verified superposition and wave function collapse with space-like separated particles, such as the Bell test experiments up to 18km.
  • #1
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In QM theory entangled particles or photons are in superposition for spin (spin up or spin down) or for polarization angles.
When one of the space like separated pair is measured for a spin or polarization observable,
the wave function collapses and the other particle is then in a definite spin or polarization state
in accord with conservation laws. Although Bell Inequality violations show there cannot be
pre determined values. Have experiments actually verified superposition / wave function collapse with
space like separated particles ?
 
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1. What is wave function collapse?

Wave function collapse is a concept in quantum mechanics that explains the behavior of particles at a subatomic level. It states that when a particle is observed or measured, its wave function, which describes its possible states, collapses into one specific state.

2. Why is wave function collapse important?

Wave function collapse is important because it helps us understand the behavior of particles at the quantum level, which is crucial for many technological advancements such as quantum computing. It also plays a key role in the famous Schrödinger's cat thought experiment, which highlights the strange and counterintuitive nature of quantum mechanics.

3. Has wave function collapse been verified experimentally?

Yes, there have been numerous experiments that have verified the existence of wave function collapse. One of the most famous is the double-slit experiment, which showed that particles behave differently when observed compared to when they are not observed. This supports the idea of wave function collapse.

4. How is wave function collapse related to the uncertainty principle?

Wave function collapse is closely related to the uncertainty principle, which states that it is impossible to simultaneously know the exact position and momentum of a particle. This is because when the particle is measured, its wave function collapses, making it impossible to know its previous state.

5. Are there any alternative theories to wave function collapse?

Yes, there are alternative theories to wave function collapse, one of which is the Many-Worlds Interpretation. This theory suggests that instead of collapsing into one state, the wave function splits into multiple parallel universes, each representing a different outcome. However, there is currently no experimental evidence to support this theory.

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