Nate's Question: Why Is Detection Equivalent to Annihilation?

[nateHI]

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coherent_state#Quantum_mechanical_definition

From the link above:
"Physically, this formula means that a coherent state is left unchanged by the detection (or annihilation) of a particle."

My question is, why is detection of a particle equivalent to annihilation of it?

Thanks, Nate

 

[CJames]

My understanding is that they aren't equivalent. It just means that the coherent state isn't changed when a particle is removed, which can happen whether it is detected or annihilated.

 

[nateHI]

I think you're correct. Thanks.

 

[CJames]

No problem.