Superposition in relation to Counter factual definiteness

In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of particles being in a superposition and the role of counterfactual definiteness in this phenomenon. The original question had some misconceptions about superpositions and counterfactual definiteness, which were clarified through further reading. It is suggested that counterfactual definiteness being false is related to particles having superpositions, but this is not always the case. Some things may require measurement for certainty, while others may not.
  • #1
quantumphysics11
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look to post 3. original question had a lot of misconceptions.
 
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  • #2
Particles do not "have" superpositions, then can be in a superposition, but a superposition is meaningless unless you say what of... so a particle can be in a superposition of quantum states.
This sentence has a very specific definition, which is not mean "does not have definite properties until measurement ... etc"

"Counterfactual definiteness" does not mean that either.
I think you need to do some more reading.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Counterfactual_definiteness
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quantum_superposition
 
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  • #3
I formulated my original question when I was very tired, and upon reviewing it, I'm attempting to start over.

To me, it seems like superpositions of particles are due to the assumption that counterfactual definiteness is false
Counterfactual definiteness being wrong implies that particles do not have definite attributes prior to decoherence, and isn't this exactly what a superposition is? A probability of a particle's attributes but not actually having definite ones?
Does one have to assume that counterfactual definiteness is false to reach the conclusion that particles have superpositions prior to measurement?
 
  • #4
The counterfactual claim is more general than that though.
A system being in a superposition does not mean that counterfactual definiteness is always false.
The normal assumption is that some things you need to measure to be sure but other things you don't.
 

1. What is superposition in relation to counterfactual definiteness?

Superposition in relation to counterfactual definiteness refers to the concept that a particle or system can exist in multiple states or positions simultaneously until it is observed or measured. This idea is a fundamental principle of quantum mechanics and is closely related to the concept of counterfactual definiteness, which suggests that a particle's properties are determined even if they are not measured or observed.

2. How does superposition relate to the famous Schrödinger's cat thought experiment?

In Schrödinger's cat thought experiment, a cat is placed in a sealed box with a vial of poison that is triggered by the decay of a radioactive atom. According to quantum mechanics, until the box is opened and the cat is observed, it exists in a state of superposition where it is both alive and dead. This thought experiment illustrates the concept of superposition in relation to counterfactual definiteness as the cat's state is not determined until it is observed.

3. Can superposition be observed in everyday objects?

While superposition is a fundamental principle of quantum mechanics, it is not typically observed in everyday objects. This is because the effects of superposition are usually only noticeable at the microscopic level, such as with subatomic particles. However, some researchers are exploring ways to observe superposition in larger objects, such as tiny mechanical devices.

4. Does superposition violate the law of non-contradiction?

The law of non-contradiction states that something cannot both be and not be at the same time. Superposition may seem to contradict this law, as a particle can exist in multiple states simultaneously. However, this apparent contradiction is resolved by the fact that superposition only applies to the quantum realm and does not extend to our macroscopic world.

5. What implications does superposition have for the future of technology?

Superposition has the potential to revolutionize technology, particularly in the field of quantum computing. Because particles in superposition can exist in multiple states simultaneously, quantum computers have the ability to perform calculations much faster and more efficiently than classical computers. This could lead to advancements in fields such as cryptography, drug discovery, and artificial intelligence.

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