Is the Spectral Gap Problem in Quantum Mechanics Undecidable?

  • Context: Graduate 
  • Thread starter Thread starter andresB
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Qm
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The spectral gap problem in quantum mechanics (QM) is identified as an undecidable issue, meaning that mathematical frameworks may not always predict the behavior of quantum systems. Researchers emphasize that while mathematical models are incomplete, nature inherently resolves these uncertainties. This conclusion aligns with Gödel's incompleteness theorems, which state that within any logical system, there exist propositions that cannot be definitively proven true or false. The implications of this finding challenge the predictability of quantum mechanics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of quantum mechanics principles
  • Familiarity with condensed matter physics
  • Knowledge of Gödel's incompleteness theorems
  • Basic mathematical logic concepts
NEXT STEPS
  • Explore the implications of Gödel's theorem in physics
  • Research the spectral gap problem in quantum mechanics
  • Study advanced topics in condensed matter physics
  • Investigate mathematical models used in quantum systems
USEFUL FOR

Physicists, mathematicians, and researchers interested in the foundations of quantum mechanics and the philosophical implications of undecidability in scientific theories.

andresB
Messages
627
Reaction score
375
There is a group of researchers that say that there is a problem in QM (the spectral gap problem) that is undecidable in generalhttp://www.nature.com/news/paradox-...-unanswerable-1.18983?WT.mc_id=TWT_NatureNews
http://www.nature.com/nature/journal/v528/n7581/full/nature16059.htmlI'm finding it very interesting, but my grasp of condensed matter physics and Gödel theory is limited so I'm unsude. it would be great if anyone can explain to me what the result actually is.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Physics news on Phys.org
There is aleady a thread on this paper here:

https://www.physicsforums.com/threads/spectral-gap-or-gapless-undecidable.847554/

The simple answer is that our math won't always able to predict what happens to a QM given system of particles. However, nature will know what to do and so our math is incomplete.

Godel's proof showed that in any given system of logic there will always be some statements which cannot be proven true or false and so are undecidable statements.

http://www.scientificamerican.com/article/what-is-godels-theorem/

Closing thread...
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 62 ·
3
Replies
62
Views
9K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • · Replies 45 ·
2
Replies
45
Views
13K
Replies
8
Views
5K