Wavefunction After Measurement

In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of wavefunction collapse and how it applies to a superposition of energy eigenfunctions. It is possible to eliminate the inconsistent part of the wavefunction and simplify it to a stationary state. The time-dependence is described as a global rotation of the phase.
  • #1
kingzeon
1
0
Forgive me for asking such a basic question but say for IDSW1 if we have a wavefunction that is a superposition of the first two energy eigenfunctions so:

ψ(x)=(1/√2)*(ψ1+ψ2)

then if we measured say E1 we can eliminate the inconsistent part of the wavefunction so the wavefunction collapses to ψ1. Then directly after, and also some time later, will the wavefunction be independent of time so we can in fact simplify the wavefunction to ψ=[itex]\phi[/itex]1?

Thanks in advance
 
Last edited:
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  • #2
You (with collapse or similar interpretations) or the part which measures 1 (with MWI) can describe the state as stationary with wave function 1, correct. The time-dependence is just a global rotation of the phase.
 

What is the wavefunction after measurement?

The wavefunction after measurement refers to the state of a quantum system after it has been observed or measured. It describes the probability of finding the system in a particular state.

How does the wavefunction change after measurement?

The wavefunction changes after measurement due to the collapse of the wavefunction, also known as wavefunction collapse. This means that the system is forced into a particular state based on the outcome of the measurement.

What is the significance of the wavefunction after measurement?

The wavefunction after measurement is significant because it provides information about the state of a quantum system, which is crucial for understanding and predicting its behavior. It also confirms the probabilistic nature of quantum mechanics.

Can the wavefunction after measurement be predicted?

No, the wavefunction after measurement cannot be predicted with certainty. According to the principles of quantum mechanics, the outcome of a measurement is random and cannot be determined beforehand.

What happens if the wavefunction is not measured?

If the wavefunction is not measured, it will continue to evolve according to the laws of quantum mechanics. This means that it will exist in multiple possible states simultaneously until it is measured or interacts with another system.

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