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ajv
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In interpretations where the wave function is real, what does that mean? does it mean that the wave function has physical meaning?
Yes. You can view that as in the MW interpretation where most of the wavefuntion ends up in other worlds.ajv said:In interpretations where the wave function is real, what does that mean? does it mean that the wave function has physical meaning?
But about electrons and sub atomic particles? If one says the wave function is real does that mean that they view electrons as physically smeared out prior to measurement?Bruno81 said:Yes. You can view that as in the MW interpretation where most of the wavefuntion ends up in other worlds.
ajv said:But about electrons and sub atomic particles? If one says the wave function is real does that mean that they view electrons as physically smeared out prior to measurement?
A wave function is a mathematical representation of the quantum state of a particle or system. It describes the probability of finding the particle in a certain location or state at a given time.
The wave function is interpreted differently depending on the interpretation of quantum mechanics. Some view it as a description of the physical reality of a particle, while others see it as a mathematical tool for making predictions.
Viewing the wave function as "real" means that one believes it represents an objective reality and describes the physical state of a particle or system. This interpretation is often associated with the Copenhagen interpretation of quantum mechanics.
Viewing the wave function as "real" has implications for our understanding of the nature of reality and the role of measurement in quantum systems. It also has implications for the concept of determinism and the role of the observer in quantum phenomena.
There is ongoing debate and research regarding the interpretation of quantum mechanics and the nature of the wave function. Some experiments, such as the double-slit experiment, have been interpreted as evidence for the physical reality of the wave function, while others argue that the wave function is simply a mathematical tool and does not have an objective reality.