Question of the behavior of particles in observation

In summary, the conversation discusses quantum mechanics and the behavior of particles when they are observed or measured. The main question is what causes this change and if it is possible to intentionally manipulate the behavior of particles. While the exact cause is unknown, there is a theory called decoherence which suggests that constantly measuring a system can keep it in a specific state. This is known as the Quantum Zeno effect and has been observed in decaying atoms.
  • #1
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I've never been formally educated in quantum mechanics but to my knowledge particles' behavior changes when they are being observed or measured. What causes this change and is there any theory as to why, or if it is possible to deliberately change behaviors to a desired outcome?
 
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  • #2
That is one of the main questions in QM. What causes the wavefunction to collapse on measurement is unknown. However, a theory called decoherence was developed as a more general concept of wavefunction collapse. By constantly measuring a system, it is possible to keep the system in that state as long as we want. This is known as the Quantum Zeno effect. It has been observed in decaying atoms. The repeated measurement of the state of the atom prevented it from decaying.
 

1. How do particles behave when observed?

Particles can behave differently when observed depending on the type of observation and the environment they are in. In general, particles can exhibit characteristics of both waves and particles, and their behavior can be influenced by factors such as energy, momentum, and position.

2. What is the uncertainty principle in relation to particle observation?

The uncertainty principle states that it is impossible to know both the exact position and momentum of a particle at the same time. This means that the act of observing a particle will inherently change its behavior, making it difficult to determine its true nature.

3. How does the observer affect the behavior of particles?

In quantum mechanics, the observer plays a crucial role in determining the behavior of particles. The act of observing a particle can cause it to collapse into a specific state or affect its trajectory, leading to different behaviors than if it were left unobserved.

4. Can particles be in multiple states at the same time during observation?

According to the principle of superposition, particles can exist in multiple states at the same time until they are observed or measured. This phenomenon is known as quantum superposition and is a fundamental aspect of particle behavior in observation.

5. How is the behavior of particles in observation related to the concept of entanglement?

Entanglement is a phenomenon in quantum mechanics where two or more particles become connected in such a way that the state of one particle affects the state of the other. The behavior of particles in observation can be influenced by entanglement, and observing one particle can provide information about the behavior of its entangled partner.

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