The discussion centers on the relationship between quantum decoherence and the measurement process in quantum mechanics. It is established that decoherence does not account for the singular outcomes of quantum measurements; rather, it explains the absence of interference among potential outcomes. The influence of a measurement on the state of the detection system is critical, as a detector can capture particles without inducing decoherence in their spin. Once a measurement is made, the state becomes committed and can be considered decohered.
PREREQUISITESPhysicists, quantum mechanics students, researchers in quantum computing, and anyone interested in the foundations of quantum measurement theory.
No, because decoherence does not explain why measurements have single outcomes. It only explains why there is no interference between different outcomes.timmdeeg said:The decoherence time is extremely short for macroscopic objects like a detector. Does this mean that the outcome of a quantum measurement which happens instantaneous can be understood as being caused by decoherence?
The detector may be large, but what is important is how much influence a measurement has on the state of the detection system. A detector that captures a photon or other particle without disturbing its spin would not result in decoherence of the spin. Once a measurement has resulted in the movement of a dial or the recording or transmission of measurement data, that measured state is committed - it can be "understood" as decohered.timmdeeg said:The decoherence time is extremely short for macroscopic objects like a detector. Does this mean that the outcome of a quantum measurement which happens instantaneous can be understood as being caused by decoherence?