Is Superposition the Explanation for Bell Inequality Violations ?

In summary, the form of a Bell inequality derived from spin measurements at detector A and B when settings are aligned is n[x-y+] + n[y-z-] ≥ n[x+z+]. It is suggested that when a particle is measured at detector A and is spin up in the y direction, its entangled twin at B is in superposition (spin up-spin down) in the x and z direction. This raises the question of whether the realism assumption in the above inequality is invalidated when detectors are not aligned. Probability calculations for entangled quantum systems, such as two electrons in the singlet state, violate Bell's inequality and require observations with unaligned detectors. Superposition is a fundamental concept in unobserved quantum systems and there is
  • #1
morrobay
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This form of a Bell inequality: n[x-y+] + n[y-z-] ≥ n[x+z+] is derived from spin measurements
at A and B when detector settings are aligned. If it is correct that when a particle is measured
at detector A and is spin up in the y direction , then its entangled twin at B is in superposition, spin up-spin down in the x and z direction. Then , if so, is the realism assumption in the above inequality invalidated when detectors are not aligned ?
 
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  • #2
Probability calculations for entangled quantum systems (two electrons in the singlet state for example) violate Bell's inequality. The calculations neccessarily include observations with unaligned detectors since three groups are needed. Superposition is fundamental to unobserved quantum systems. There is no "explanation" for Bell Inequality Violations other than that's what the Math says, and experiments bear it out. (I'm still learning this stuff. We'll see how much trouble I just got in)
 

FAQ: Is Superposition the Explanation for Bell Inequality Violations ?

1. What is superposition?

Superposition is a fundamental principle of quantum mechanics that states that a particle can exist in multiple states or locations simultaneously. It is often described as a wave-like behavior of particles, where they can be in multiple places at the same time.

2. How does superposition relate to Bell inequality violations?

Bell inequality violations occur when measurements of entangled particles violate the predictions of local hidden variable theories. Superposition is one possible explanation for these violations, as it allows particles to exist in multiple states simultaneously, thus violating the assumption of local realism.

3. Are there any other explanations for Bell inequality violations?

Yes, there are other possible explanations for Bell inequality violations, such as quantum entanglement and non-locality. These explanations are still being studied and debated among scientists.

4. How do scientists test the role of superposition in Bell inequality violations?

Scientists use various experiments and measurements to test the role of superposition in Bell inequality violations. These include Bell tests, which compare the correlations between entangled particles with the predictions of local hidden variable theories, and tests of quantum entanglement.

5. Is superposition the only possible explanation for Bell inequality violations?

No, superposition is not the only possible explanation for Bell inequality violations. As mentioned before, there are other explanations, and the scientific community is still actively researching and debating these explanations. Additionally, new theories and discoveries may provide alternative explanations in the future.

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