Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around the application of a Mach-Zehnder interferometer using entangled photons, exploring the implications of using such a setup on the observed interference patterns. Participants examine whether the presence of an obstacle in one of the paths would still allow for the observation of interference patterns, similar to experiments conducted with coherent light sources.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory
- Technical explanation
- Debate/contested
Main Points Raised
- Marilyn describes an experiment using a Mach-Zehnder interferometer with entangled photons and questions whether the results would be the same as with a coherent light source.
- Some participants propose that the presence of a BBO crystal in the path would lead to diffuse results on both screens, with no interference fringes observable, regardless of whether one path is blocked.
- Marilyn expresses uncertainty about the implications of the BBO crystal and whether it prevents her from observing wave behavior in her own measurements.
- There is a suggestion that the systematic presence of diffuse patterns in Alice's results may not necessarily prevent Bob from obtaining information about Alice's measurements.
- Participants discuss the motivations behind conducting such experiments, with Marilyn emphasizing her desire to deepen her understanding of quantum mechanics predictions.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants do not reach a consensus on whether the experimental results would differ from those observed with coherent light sources. Multiple competing views remain regarding the effects of the BBO crystal and the implications for interference patterns.
Contextual Notes
Unresolved aspects include the specific conditions under which interference patterns may or may not be observed with entangled photons, as well as the assumptions regarding the measurement capabilities of Alice and Bob.
