Is the entire system of quantum observers and objects relatively linear?

In summary, the conversation explores the topic of linearity and nonlinearity in the context of quantum mechanics and gravitation. There is a question of whether quantum mechanics guarantees linearity between all possible interactions and how the graviton quantum justifies this ambiguity. The concept of the correspondence principle is also brought up, with a discussion on the connection between macroscopic and microscopic situations. The conversation also delves into the idea of constructing a nonlinear theory from a linear one and the challenges of doing so. Ultimately, the conclusion is that linearity is determined by measurements and that nonlinear theories may be a better representation of reality.
  • #1
Loren Booda
3,125
4
In a universe of particles and measurers, does quantum mechanics guarantee the linearity between all possible interactions?
 
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  • #2
No.The gravitational interaction is a perfect example of nonlinear interaction...


Daniel.
 
  • #3
Though gravitation exists, must it not co-exist with quantum mechanical interactions, that is, bestow nonlinearity where linearity is usually considered the rule? How does the graviton quantum justify this ambiguity? Does not the correspondence principle infer a gradual transformation between macroscopic gravitational (nonlinear) situations and those microscopically quantum mechanical (linear)? Could the perceived (non)linearity of a system depend primarily on the type of measurement performed upon it?
 
  • #4
What exactly do you mean by "linearity"...?For example,QCD and EW are both nonlinear field theories...I have no idea what you meant by "correspondence principle infer a gradual transformation between macroscopic gravitational (nonlinear) situations and those microscopically quantum mechanical (linear)"...

As for the last question,i frankly doubt there would be any connection in the sense you described,more viceversa:linearity is confirmed or infirmed by measurements...

Daniel.
 
  • #5
One can construct a nonlinear theory from a linear one, but not vice versa?
 
  • #6
Both ways;of course,it's easier to linearize,but,for gravity for example,it's just an approximation valid for weak fields (waves included)...As for QCD or EW,basically everything is lost...I doubt any experiment would confirmed the linearized theories...

Daniel.
 

1. What is a quantum observer?

A quantum observer is anything or anyone that can detect, measure, or interact with a quantum system. This can include a human, a machine, or even a particle.

2. What does it mean for a system to be relatively linear in quantum mechanics?

In quantum mechanics, linearity refers to the principle that the state of a system can be described as a linear combination of its possible states. This means that the overall behavior of a system is determined by the combination of its individual components, rather than just the sum of their individual behaviors.

3. How does the concept of linearity affect quantum observations?

The principle of linearity in quantum mechanics allows for multiple observers to measure the same system and obtain consistent results. This is because the behavior of the system is determined by the combination of its individual components, rather than the specific observer or measurement method.

4. Can the linearity of quantum systems be broken?

There are certain phenomena, such as quantum entanglement, that may appear to break the principle of linearity in quantum mechanics. However, these phenomena can still be explained within the framework of linear quantum mechanics. It is currently a topic of ongoing research in the field.

5. How does the concept of relativity relate to quantum observations?

In the context of quantum mechanics, relativity refers to the idea that the observer and the observed are not separate entities but rather part of the same quantum system. This means that the act of observing can influence the behavior of the system, blurring the line between observer and observed.

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