Why is the smallest energy transfer in quantum measurement uncontrollable?

In summary, the root cause of indeterminacy in quantum measurement process is the probabilistic nature of quantum mechanics, which is a postulate. This is due to the smallest energy transfer happening through the emission or absorption of a single photon, an irreducible and uncontrollable process. There is a possibility of a deeper deterministic theory, but Bell's Theorem suggests that it may be just as weird as quantum mechanics.
  • #1
gianeshwar
226
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Dear Friends!
Root cause of indeterminacy in quantum measurement process is that the smallest energy transfer happens via the emission or absorption of a single photon,an irreducible and uncontrollable process.
I want to understand it more convincingly.
 
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  • #2
No, indeterminacy has nothing to do with smallest energy transfer.
 
  • #3
Rather than the energy transfer, would it be correct to say that it is the "action" that has a minimum?
 
  • #4
Jilang said:
Rather than the energy transfer, would it be correct to say that it is the "action" that has a minimum?

No, that's not right either.
 
  • #5
gianeshwar said:
I want to understand it more convincingly.

There are a bunch of threads here on quantum indeterminacy which will give you the details.

The quick answer, however, is that the probabilistic nature of quantum mechanics is a postulate. It is possible that there is some deeper deterministic theory underneath quantum mechanics (similar to the way that a tossed coin appears to land heads or tails at random, but in fact its trajectory is deterministic and could in principle be calculated from Newtob's laws and the initial conditions). However, googling for "Bell's Theorem" will quickly convince you that if such a deeper theory exists, it will be no less weird than QM.
 

What is the concept of smallest energy transfer?

The concept of smallest energy transfer refers to the transfer of a small amount of energy from one system to another. This can occur through various mechanisms such as heat, light, or mechanical energy.

Why is smallest energy transfer important in scientific research?

Smallest energy transfer plays a crucial role in scientific research as it allows us to understand and study various processes and phenomena at a microscopic level. It also helps us in developing new technologies and improving existing ones.

How is the smallest energy transfer measured?

The smallest energy transfer is measured using various techniques and instruments such as calorimeters, spectrophotometers, and microscopes. These tools allow us to accurately measure and quantify the amount of energy being transferred.

What are some examples of smallest energy transfer in everyday life?

Smallest energy transfer occurs in our everyday lives in many ways. Some common examples include the transfer of heat from a hot stove to a pot of water, the transfer of electrical energy through wires, and the transfer of light energy from a light bulb to a room.

How does the concept of smallest energy transfer relate to the laws of thermodynamics?

The concept of smallest energy transfer is closely related to the laws of thermodynamics, specifically the first and second laws. These laws state that energy cannot be created or destroyed, but it can be transferred from one form to another. Smallest energy transfer allows us to observe and study these energy transformations in various systems.

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