Ways to put subatomic particles in indeterminate state

In summary, the only way to put a photon's properties in a definite state is through measurement using tools such as polarizers or photodetectors. All other methods, including quantum entanglement, can only result in an indeterminate state for the photon's properties.
  • #1
sanpkl
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1 what are the various methods/ways, besides quantum entanglement, to put, some of, the photon properties an indeterminate state?

2 what are the various methods/ways, besides polarizers or measurement, to put the photon properties a determinate state?
 
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  • #2
sanpkl said:
1 what are the various methods/ways, besides quantum entanglement, to put, some of, the photon properties an indeterminate state?

2 what are the various methods/ways, besides polarizers or measurement, to put the photon properties a determinate state?

Is this for schoolwork?
 
  • #3
no, not a student.
nor is it being posted for any friend or relative
 
  • #4
sanpkl said:
no, not a student.
nor is it being posted for any friend or relative

OK, no problem. We're asking because you've written the question in a way that sounds as if it came out of a textbook or homework exercise, and these problems are handled separately in the homework forums (whether formally assigned schoolwork or not).

But with that said... Loosely speaking, the only attributes of a particle that do have definite values are those that have been measured (polarizers to measure polarization, bubble chambers and photodetectors to measure position, and so forth) or that correspond to observables that commute with observables that have been measured. So we don't have to do anything special to prepare particles "in an indefinite state" because they're always that way whether we like it or not; and measurement is the only way of getting any attribute of the particle to be known.
 
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1. What is an indeterminate state of a subatomic particle?

An indeterminate state of a subatomic particle refers to a state in which the exact position and velocity of the particle cannot be determined simultaneously. This is a fundamental principle of quantum mechanics, where the behavior of particles is described probabilistically rather than deterministically.

2. What are some ways to put subatomic particles in an indeterminate state?

One way to put subatomic particles in an indeterminate state is through the process of quantum superposition, where a particle can exist in multiple states simultaneously. Another way is through the use of quantum entanglement, where the state of one particle is dependent on the state of another particle.

3. Why is it important to study the indeterminate state of subatomic particles?

Studying the indeterminate state of subatomic particles is important because it helps us understand the fundamental nature of reality at the smallest scales. It also has practical applications in fields such as quantum computing and cryptography.

4. What are the implications of the indeterminate state for our understanding of the universe?

The indeterminate state of subatomic particles challenges our traditional understanding of cause and effect and raises questions about the nature of reality. It also has implications for our understanding of time, space, and the interconnectedness of all things.

5. How do scientists observe and measure the indeterminate state of subatomic particles?

Scientists use various tools and techniques such as particle accelerators and quantum detectors to observe and measure the indeterminate state of subatomic particles. These instruments allow scientists to make precise measurements and gather data to better understand the behavior of particles in an indeterminate state.

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