Mathematical Explanation of One partice in two place

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept of a single particle existing in multiple locations within the framework of quantum mechanics. Participants explore the implications of the superposition principle and the interpretation of quantum states, addressing both theoretical and conceptual aspects.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant requests a mathematical explanation of a particle existing in multiple locations.
  • Another participant asserts that quantum mechanics does not predict a particle can exist in multiple locations simultaneously.
  • Some participants argue that a particle can be in many locations due to the superposition principle, represented mathematically as | Ψ ⟩ = ∑ c_{i} | x_{i} ⟩.
  • There are claims that the idea of a particle being in multiple locations is a misconception, often propagated by non-scientists.
  • One participant emphasizes that while a particle can be described as being in many locations, it is always measured in only one location.
  • Some participants express concern that the discussion may be confusing for those unfamiliar with quantum mechanics.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally disagree on the interpretation of quantum mechanics regarding a particle's ability to exist in multiple locations. Multiple competing views remain, with no consensus reached.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights the complexity of interpreting quantum mechanics, particularly regarding the definitions and implications of superposition and measurement. There are unresolved assumptions about participants' familiarity with quantum mechanics and the sources of their information.

Quarlep
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Can you explain me mathematically one particle in many places.
Thanks
 
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No. Nobody can, because quantum mechanics does not predict this.
 
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How ?? I know that one particle can be many locations in quantum physics.
 
One particle is ever only measured in one location. Probability of where it can be measured is confined in QFT.
 
Quarlep said:
How ?? I know that one particle can be many locations in quantum physics.
Potentially (and that is important) the particle "can be in many locations" and this is know as the super-position principle [tex]| \Psi \rangle = \sum c_{ i } \ | x_{ i } \rangle .[/tex] Have you studied quantum mechanics?
 
Quarlep said:
How ?? I know that one particle can be many locations in quantum physics.

Well, you know wrongly. QM does not say this. If you have studied QM, you would know this. If you haven't, isn't it better to learn from those who have?
 
Quarlep said:
How ?? I know that one particle can be many locations in quantum physics.

You may have been told that, or have read it in some non-serious popularization, but it is just not true. It is a misconception that is handed down from one generation of non-scientists to another.
 
samalkhaiat said:
Potentially (and that is important) the particle "can be in many locations" and this is know as the super-position principle [tex]| \Psi \rangle = \sum c_{ i } \ | x_{ i } \rangle .[/tex]

I think this is likely to be confusing.
 
samalkhaiat said:
Potentially (and that is important) the particle "can be in many locations" and this is know as the super-position principle [tex]| \Psi \rangle = \sum c_{ i } \ | x_{ i } \rangle .[/tex] Have you studied quantum mechanics?

Vanadium 50 said:
I think this is likely to be confusing.
Ya think? :)

For the original poster: Note that samalkhait said the particle "can be" in many locations, not "is". There are many locations that it can be in, but we will always find it in exactly one of them.
 
  • #10
We can stop piling on now - the question has been answered.
 

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