Quantum Decoherence: What Happens to Other Outcomes?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the implications of quantum decoherence, particularly focusing on the fate of other possible outcomes after decoherence has occurred. It touches on the measurement problem in quantum mechanics and the interpretations of quantum theory, exploring the relationship between decoherence and entangled systems.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants inquire about the fate of other possible outcomes after decoherence, questioning where these outcomes go.
  • It is noted that the measurement problem highlights the discrepancy between the mathematical formalism of quantum mechanics, which provides probabilities for outcomes, and the process by which a single outcome is realized.
  • Some argue that the answers to these questions vary depending on different interpretations of quantum mechanics, suggesting that no single satisfactory answer has emerged over the past century.
  • There is a discussion about decoherence being primarily associated with non-collapse interpretations of quantum mechanics, raising questions about the implications for entangled superpositions.
  • One participant asserts that decoherence is a consequence of the basic mathematics of quantum mechanics and is not tied to any specific interpretation.
  • Another participant emphasizes that if one seeks to remain independent of any interpretation, the only answer regarding the fate of outcomes is "decoherence."
  • Questions arise about the status of other entangled systems, with a clarification that entanglement does not imply the existence of multiple systems but rather indicates that individual subsystems lack definite states.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the implications of decoherence and its relationship to interpretations of quantum mechanics. There is no consensus on the fate of other outcomes or entangled systems, indicating ongoing debate and uncertainty.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights limitations in understanding the implications of decoherence, particularly regarding the definitions of entanglement and the measurement problem. The relationship between decoherence and various interpretations of quantum mechanics remains unresolved.

Question69
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What happens to the other possible outcomes after decoherence has been finalized? Where do they go?
 
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Question69 said:
What happens to the other possible outcomes after decoherence has been finalized? Where do they go?
This is basically the measurement problem: The mathematical formalism gives us the probabilities of the various outcomes, but doesn't say anything about how we end up with a single outcome.

The answer will be different for different interpretations, and if any of the answers were completely satisfactory people wouldn't have argued about this for the past century.
 
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Nugatory said:
This is basically the measurement problem: The mathematical formalism gives us the probabilities of the various outcomes, but doesn't say anything about how we end up with a single outcome.

The answer will be different for different interpretations, and if any of the answers were completely satisfactory people wouldn't have argued about this for the past century.
right, but decoherence is mainly used in non-collapse foundations of QM no? So, if that's the case, since the unitary evolution is preserved, what happens to the other entangled superpositions?
 
Question69 said:
decoherence is mainly used in non-collapse foundations of QM no?
Decoherence is not part of any particular interpretation of QM. It's a consequence of the basic math of QM.
 
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PeterDonis said:
Decoherence is not part of any particular interpretation of QM. It's a consequence of the basic math of QM.
Yes, that's what I said what happens in the bare-bone version of this, not coupled with any other interpretation.
 
Question69 said:
what happens in the bare-bone version of this, not coupled with any other interpretation.
Decoherence.

There is no other answer if you want to stay independent of any interpretation. "Decoherence" is all the basic math of QM can tell you.
 
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Hmm, but still, what happens with the other entangled systems?
 
Question69 said:
what happens with the other entangled systems?
What "other entangled systems"? Entanglement does not duplicate systems. It just means the individual subsystems don't have definite states, only the joint entangled system does. There is still only one of each subsystem.
 
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