Meaning of velocity in Bohm interpretation

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept of velocity in the Bohm interpretation of quantum mechanics, particularly how it relates to the velocities and momenta described in the Copenhagen interpretation. The scope includes theoretical comparisons and clarifications regarding measurement in both interpretations.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants assert that in the Bohm interpretation, particles possess a definite position and velocity, which differs from the Copenhagen interpretation except in specific measured cases.
  • It is proposed that when velocity or momentum is measured in the Bohm interpretation, it can become identical to that in the Copenhagen interpretation.
  • Questions are raised about the nature of momentum in the Bohm interpretation and whether it can be used to construct a wavefunction, with some participants suggesting that this is generally not possible unless momentum has been measured.
  • Clarifications are made regarding the measurement of velocity, indicating that a measuring device designed to measure velocity in the Bohm interpretation would not simultaneously measure the particle's position.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the relationship between velocity in the Bohm interpretation and the Copenhagen interpretation, with no consensus reached on the implications of measurement and the construction of wavefunctions.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights potential limitations in understanding the relationship between velocity and momentum across interpretations, particularly regarding the conditions under which measurements are made and the implications for wavefunction construction.

Gerenuk
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In the Bohm interpretation particles have a definite position and also a velocity?

How is this velocity related to velocities and momenta in the Copenhagen interpretation of QM?
 
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In general, this velocity/momentum is completely different than that in the Copenhagen interpretation (CI).
However, in a special case in which the velocity/momentum is MEASURED, then it becomes identical to that in CI.
Bohm interpretation describes (or at least attempts to describe) what exactly happens during the measurement, as well as what exactly happens when the measurement is not performed.
 
Thanks for the clarification.
Do you mean if I set up a momentum measuring device at one point, it would measure the "classical Bohm" velocity?

How then would you describe the difference between momentum in B and CI? Do you mean I cannot take the momentum from B and construct the wavefunction from it?
 
Gerenuk said:
Do you mean if I set up a momentum measuring device at one point, it would measure the "classical Bohm" velocity?
If the measuring device is constructed such that it measures the velocity, then this device measures the "classical" Bohm velocity. However, such a measuring device does not measure the position of the particle, even though the particle has a definite position too.

Gerenuk said:
Do you mean I cannot take the momentum from B and construct the wavefunction from it?
In general, that is correct. The exception is the case in which you have measured the momentum, in which case you can construct the wave function from knowledge of the momentum.
 

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