Probabilities & Observed Reality

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on an experimental setup involving a double-slit screen with two cameras to observe particle behavior. The participant intends to randomly choose between two cameras to determine which slit a particle passes through, aiming for a 50% detection rate for each slit. The conversation references the quantum eraser experiment by Scully, emphasizing the impact of shutter choices on detection probabilities. The inquiry specifically questions whether the overall detection rate remains 50% for slit 1 when varying shutter openings.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of quantum mechanics principles, particularly wave-particle duality.
  • Familiarity with the double-slit experiment and its implications in quantum physics.
  • Knowledge of the quantum eraser experiment and its significance in measurement theory.
  • Basic statistical analysis to interpret experimental results.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the quantum eraser experiment and its findings in detail.
  • Explore the implications of measurement choices in quantum mechanics.
  • Study statistical methods for analyzing experimental data in quantum physics.
  • Investigate the role of observer effect in quantum experiments.
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Students and researchers in quantum physics, experimental physicists, and anyone interested in the implications of measurement in quantum mechanics.

StevieTNZ
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Hi there,

I'm thinking of an experimental set-up that incorporates cameras behind a double-slit screen. The cameras will take a picture if a particle goes through the applicable slit. For me to know which slit it goes through, I need to check the camera to see if its taken a picture.
For simplicity:
Slit 1 = Camera 1
Slit 2 = Camera 2

Each time a particle is emitted from the source towards the final screen, I will look at only one camera, choosing which one randomly (1/2 the time camera 1 and 1/2 the time camera 2). I emit many particles, enough to satisfy the statistics that 50% go through slit 1 and 50% go through slit 2.

How many times will I see the particle goes through slit 1 by looking at camera 1?
I know in the ideal measurement in a quantum eraser experiment (that of Scully's), 50% of those going through slit 1 are detected if we open the top shutter, and 50% going through slit 2 by opening the top shutter as well.
But what if I decided to open the buttom shutter when I could have opened the top? And the top when I could open the bottom? Would I still find 50% going through slit 1 if I still open the top shutter half the time overall?
 
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