Many Worlds based on the observer effect

[AustinLee]

Hi,

I understand that some people believe in the many worlds interpretation because of the probabilistic nature of quantum mechanics but couldn't another many worlds exist under the observer effect. I'll give a thought experiment using the double slit.

When bob measures the measures electrons at the slits he collapses the wave and sees the electrons behave as particles through at the slit.

If Alice is completely unaware and non-interacting with bob and his measuring equipment(As not even matter is transmitted between the two). She simply observes the electrons when they hit the back measuring panel see will see the electrons behaving as a wave.

Wouldn't these two observations contradict each other, and allow for two universes to exist depending on where you standing. I know they could ask each other later, but what if they never did, then there is no way for Alice to even hope for measuring the electrons at the slits. She will simply observed a different reality.

 

[AndyW]

Hello,

Thank you for your forum post. The many worlds interpretation of quantum mechanics is a fascinating theory that has been heavily debated among scientists for many years. While your thought experiment is certainly interesting, there are a few points that I would like to address.

Firstly, the observer effect, which is the idea that the act of observing a phenomenon can affect its behavior, is a well-known concept in quantum mechanics. However, it is important to note that this effect does not necessarily lead to the existence of multiple universes. The observer effect can be explained by the fact that the act of observation involves interaction with the system being observed, which can alter its behavior.

In your thought experiment, you mention that Bob's measurement of the electrons at the slits causes the wave function to collapse and the electrons to behave as particles. This is a valid observation, but it does not necessarily mean that a new universe is created. The many worlds interpretation proposes that every possible outcome of a quantum event actually occurs in a different universe. However, there is currently no evidence to support this theory.

Additionally, the concept of two observers witnessing contradictory realities is not necessarily supported by the many worlds interpretation. In this theory, each observer would simply be experiencing a different branch of the wave function, rather than completely different universes.

Finally, it is important to remember that scientific theories are based on evidence and rigorous testing. While the many worlds interpretation is a fascinating concept, it is still just a theory and has not been proven. As scientists, we must continue to gather evidence and conduct experiments to further our understanding of the universe.

I hope this helps to clarify some of your questions. Keep exploring and questioning the world around you!