Proof that no non-local variable can exist ?

In summary, the conversation discusses the measurement of A\otimes B-A\otimes B'+A'\otimes B+A'\otimes B' at various angles and how this relates to the concept of non-local variables. It is argued that in quantum mechanics, the total Bell operator has different possible measurement outcomes than those given by a non-local variable. It is also noted that measuring A+B is not the same as measuring A, B, and then adding the results. The conversation then delves into the impact of interactions with the system and the role of experimental apparatus in the measurement process. Ultimately, it is concluded that the addition in the measurement process can be attributed to a computer and does not necessarily affect the results.
  • #1
jk22
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Suppose we consider the measurement of [tex]A\otimes B-A\otimes B'+A'\otimes B+A'\otimes B'[/tex]at angles 0, 45, 90, 135 degrees.

If there exist a non-local variable that determine the result of the pair of result, then one gets for result of measurement [tex]0, 4, -4[/tex]

Whereas in quantum mechanics, the total Bell operator is [tex]\frac{1}{\sqrt{2}}\left(\begin{array}{cc} 2 &0&0&2\\0&-2&2&0\\0&2&-2&0\\2&0&0&2\end{array}\right)[/tex] which has as possible measurement outcomes : [tex]0, 2\sqrt{2},-2\sqrt{2}[/tex] which are not the same as the one given by a nonlocal variable since the eigenvalue of a sum of operator is not equal to the sum of the eigenvalues.

Since the measurement outcomes are not the same, does this indicates that there can be no non-local variable can exist ?
 
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  • #2
I think you are doing the same mistake von Neumann have done a long time ago. Measuring A+B is not the same as measuring A, measuring B, and then adding results.
 
  • #3
Can we say that the addition is not part of the measurement process, since it's made by a computer, so that we really measure and add +1 and -1 in an experiment ? I made another mistake, it's that the eigevalues of the sum of operators is the sum of the eigenvalues if both operator are diagonal.
 
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  • #4
jk22 said:
Can we say that the addition is not part of the measurement process, since it's made by a computer, so that we really measure and add +1 and -1 in an experiment ?

If anything (computer, human, animal, vegetable, or mineral) interacts with the system in a way that extracts a value of A, that's a measurement of A and it will disturb the system in such a way that (the distribution of subsequent) measurements of B will be affected.
 
  • #5
Ok.
But does the way we prepare an experiment change : if we measure AB we set the experimental apparatus to give 1 or -1 as result, whereas if we measure AB-AB'+A'B+A'B' at the given angle we should set the experimental apparatus to give -2sqrt(2) as result ? Or does the experimental apparatus in some way know we measure the sum ? In the case of the Bell operator the singlet state is an eigenstate and is not degenerate, so it's not an average, we know the result with certainty.
 
  • #6
jk22 said:
Can we say that the addition is not part of the measurement process, since it's made by a computer
Yes we can.
 

1. What is a non-local variable?

A non-local variable is a type of variable that is not confined to a specific function or scope, but can be accessed and modified by different functions within a program.

2. How is non-local variable related to locality?

The concept of locality in programming refers to the scope of a variable, i.e. where it can be accessed and modified. Non-local variables are not restricted by locality and can be accessed and modified from different parts of the program.

3. How does the proof show that non-local variables cannot exist?

The proof, known as the "No-communication theorem", states that it is impossible for non-local variables to exist because it would require the ability for information to be transmitted instantaneously between different parts of a program. This is not possible according to the laws of physics.

4. Can non-local variables be simulated in any way?

No, non-local variables cannot be simulated in any way as it would violate the laws of physics. The concept of locality is a fundamental principle in computer science and any attempt to simulate non-local variables would be considered invalid.

5. What are some implications of the proof for programming?

The proof has implications for the design and implementation of programming languages and algorithms. It means that certain types of non-local variables, such as global variables, should be used with caution as they can introduce errors and make programs more difficult to understand and debug. It also highlights the importance of maintaining good programming practices and adhering to the principles of locality.

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