Is single particle interference explainable via entanglement?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around whether single particle interference, particularly in the context of the double slit experiment, can be explained through the concept of entanglement. Participants explore the relationship between entanglement and interference, questioning the role of the detector and the implications of entangling the particle with it.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions if single particle interference can be explained via entanglement, specifically referencing the double slit experiment.
  • Several participants inquire about what the single particle entangles with, particularly in relation to the detector during the which-way part of the experiment.
  • Another participant argues that if the particle is significantly entangled with the detector, interference will not be observed, suggesting that entanglement cannot explain interference.
  • A similar point is reiterated, emphasizing that entanglement with the detector leads to the absence of interference.
  • One participant critiques another for repeatedly asking questions about quantum mechanics without engaging in formal study, suggesting that this approach may not be effective for understanding the topic.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the relationship between entanglement and interference, with some arguing against the possibility of entanglement explaining interference, while others seek clarification on the nature of entanglement in this context. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the role of entanglement in single particle interference.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations regarding the assumptions made about entanglement and its implications for interference, as well as the dependence on definitions of entanglement and interference. The discussion does not resolve these complexities.

San K
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Do you think that:

Single particle interference is explainable via entanglement?

For example: in the single particle double slit experiment
 
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What does the single particle entangle with?
 
jtbell said:
What does the single particle entangle with?

with the detector, during which-way part of the experiment...
 
If you entangle the particle with the detector in a significant way, you won't see interference. So: No, entanglement with the detector cannot explain interference.
 
mfb said:
If you entangle the particle with the detector in a significant way, you won't see interference. So: No, entanglement with the detector cannot explain interference.

does entanglement explain absence of interference?
 
San K, you have by my count posted 149 questions on some aspect of quantum mechanics, many of which are duplicates of each other. I think we can safely conclude that this method of yours is not working.

I think part of the reason this isn't working is that you are trying to learn quantum mechanics without learning quantum mechanics. That is, you are not taking a course in it, and you're not learning to do calculations. Physics is not about trying to put the words together in the right order.

At this point, I think you have two options: accept the answers you have been given, or start learning QM formally - take a class and work through a textbook, etc. Asking the same questions over and over and over is not an option anymore: it's clearly not working, and it just makes other people cross.
 

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