Ways to put subatomic particles in indeterminate state

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around methods to place subatomic particles, specifically photons, into indeterminate states, as well as methods to achieve determinate states. The scope includes theoretical considerations of quantum mechanics and the properties of photons.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Participants inquire about various methods, aside from quantum entanglement, to place photon properties into an indeterminate state.
  • Participants also seek alternative methods, besides polarizers or measurement, to achieve determinate states for photon properties.
  • One participant notes that the phrasing of the question resembles textbook or homework problems, prompting a clarification about the intent behind the inquiry.
  • A later reply suggests that the only attributes of a particle that have definite values are those that have been measured, indicating that particles are inherently in an indefinite state until measured.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on specific methods for achieving indeterminate or determinate states, and the discussion remains unresolved regarding the proposed methods.

Contextual Notes

There is an implication that the understanding of indeterminate states relies on the principles of quantum mechanics, particularly the role of measurement in determining particle attributes. However, the discussion does not delve into specific mathematical formulations or definitions that may be relevant.

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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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?
 
no, not a student.
nor is it being posted for any friend or relative
 
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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