Is the Elitzur-Vaidman bomb problem based on incorrect assumptions?

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In summary, the assumptions about this thought experiment are incorrect as it does not involve a photon detector or bomb trigger and the wave function can collapse without any photons being observed. The detection of an interference pattern does not determine the functionality of the bomb.
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SamsonDelilah
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Are the following assumptions about this thought experiment correct?...

If an interference pattern is detected the bomb is defective because there was never any possibility of a photon being observed and collapsing the wave function.

In the case that no interference pattern is detected and the photon arrives at the detector at the end of the interferometer a photonless beam of light must have traveled through a functional photon detector/bomb trigger. This means the bomb is not defective because the photon that wasn't actually on the path to set off the bomb somehow knew that it would be detected there and the wave function collapsed even thought the photon was on the other path.
 
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No, these assumptions are not correct. The thought experiment does not involve a photon detector or bomb trigger, and the wave function can collapse without any photons being observed. Additionally, the fact that an interference pattern is detected does not necessarily mean that the bomb is defective.
 

Related to Is the Elitzur-Vaidman bomb problem based on incorrect assumptions?

1. What is the Elitzur-Vaidman Bomb Problem?

The Elitzur-Vaidman Bomb Problem is a thought experiment in quantum mechanics that explores the concept of superposition and measurement in a quantum system.

2. How does the Elitzur-Vaidman Bomb Problem work?

In the experiment, a bomb is placed in a sealed box with two possible detonation mechanisms. According to quantum mechanics, the bomb is in a state of superposition, meaning it exists in both mechanisms simultaneously until it is observed or measured.

3. What is the significance of the Elitzur-Vaidman Bomb Problem?

The Elitzur-Vaidman Bomb Problem highlights the counterintuitive nature of quantum mechanics, where a particle can exist in multiple states at once. It also raises questions about the role of observation and measurement in determining the state of a quantum system.

4. What is the resolution to the Elitzur-Vaidman Bomb Problem?

The resolution to the problem lies in the concept of quantum decoherence, which explains how a quantum system can appear to collapse into a single state when observed or measured by an external system.

5. How is the Elitzur-Vaidman Bomb Problem relevant in modern science?

The Elitzur-Vaidman Bomb Problem has implications for various fields of science, such as quantum computing and cryptography. It also challenges our understanding of the fundamental nature of reality and the role of observation in shaping it.

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