Observation Definition - What Is It?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the definition of "observation" within the context of physics and quantum mechanics. Patrick asserts that observation requires an outcome of an experiment, which must be documentable, while juju expands on this by stating that a quantum system is considered observed when it interacts with an external agency. The conversation highlights the complexities of defining observation, particularly in quantum contexts, where the interaction and agency must also be clarified.

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  • Understanding of experimental outcomes in physics
  • Basic knowledge of quantum mechanics
  • Familiarity with the concept of interaction in scientific contexts
  • Ability to interpret logical statements in scientific discourse
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  • Research the role of observation in quantum mechanics
  • Explore the implications of measurement in quantum systems
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  • Examine how experimental outcomes are documented and communicated
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Students and professionals in physics, particularly those interested in quantum mechanics, as well as researchers exploring the philosophical implications of observation in scientific experiments.

scilover89
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Can someone tell me the definition of observation?
 
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scilover89 said:
Can someone tell me the definition of observation?

It is of course a very subtle issue. First of all, "observation" as such doesn't, I think, have any meaning. You have to observe *something*, and that something, in a physics setting, is "an outcome of experiment" (which can go from very sophisticated to trivial).
I would then say that an outcome of experiment is observed, if (at least in principle) it is possible to write down that outcome on a sheet of paper which can be send to a newspaper, and any action/setup/experiment that performs this, is an observation.

cheers,
Patrick.
 
Hi,

I would say that any quantum system can be said to have been observed if it interacts with an outside agency.

juju
 
Last edited:
In the quantum context, I will say that an observation result is simply a logical statement that is true (e.g. the particle is observed at position x <=> "the result of the observation is x" is true).

Seratend.
 
juju said:
Hi,

I would say that any quantum system can be said to have been observed if it interacts with an outside agency.

juju

Now you have to explain what "interaction" and "outside agency" mean. You've just doubled your workload.
 

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