Probability laws of quantum mechanics

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the Wu-Shaknov experiment involving positronium emission, as described in Amir D. Aczel's book "Entanglement." It confirms that while quantum mechanics allows for probabilistic outcomes, the emission of an infinite number of photons from two annihilating particles is impossible. Instead, the emission of multiple photons, such as three or more, is highly improbable, with the standard outcome being the emission of two high-energy photons.

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  • Understanding of quantum mechanics principles
  • Familiarity with positronium and particle annihilation
  • Knowledge of photon emission processes
  • Basic grasp of probability laws in quantum systems
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  • Research the Wu-Shaknov experiment in detail
  • Explore the implications of quantum entanglement in particle physics
  • Study the statistical mechanics of photon emission
  • Learn about the limitations of quantum probability in particle interactions
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Physicists, students of quantum mechanics, and anyone interested in the probabilistic nature of particle interactions and photon emission processes.

Waveparticle
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Im currently reading Entanglement by Amir D. Aczel and it talks about the Wu-Shaknov experiment of positronium emission where two particles annihilate each other and two high energy photons are emitted. It goes onto say that due to the probability laws of quantum mechanics, every so often three photons would have to be emitted as well. My question is, is it possible for these two particles to create an infinite amount of photons due to the probability or is their a limit to the number of photons that can be emitted.
 
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It's not possible for them to create an infinite amount of photons, no.

I suppose it's possible for them to create a very large number, although the exact number of photons would depend on the process in question. But it'd be extremely improbable. A two-photon emission (where you'd normally have one) itself is very improbable.
 

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