Symmetry and conservation of momentum

Thread starter verdigris
Start date Mar 25, 2007
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Conservation Conservation of momentum Momentum Symmetry

AI Thread Summary

The law of conservation of momentum is consistently upheld and has never been observed to be violated. In quantum mechanics, conservation laws are linked to symmetries, raising the question of whether momentum conservation is a result of existing symmetries or if symmetries arise from the conservation law itself. The discussion suggests that the relationship may be complex, with possibilities including a mutual existence or even the idea that neither condition is strictly necessary. This interplay between symmetry and conservation laws remains a topic of interest in physics. Ultimately, the nature of this relationship invites further exploration and debate.

Mar 25, 2007

verdigris

The law of conservation of momentum has never been observed to be violated.In quantum mechanics conservation laws relate to symmetries.So is the existence of the law of conservation of momentum
due to the fact that a symmetry exists, or does a symmetry exist because the law of conservation of momentum exists?

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Mar 25, 2007

cesiumfrog

I think the answer is just yes.

Mar 25, 2007

Mentz114

... or even 'neither'.

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