Does Quantum Mechanics Suggest Violations of Conservation Laws?

In summary, in quantum mechanics, the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle limits the discussion of physical quantities to only their expectation values. This means that while it is possible for fundamental physical laws like the conservation of energy to be violated, we are unable to measure these instances due to the HUP. However, all matrix elements of an operator can be measured, not just expectation values, so if the conservation of energy were truly violated, it could be observed. The HUP is an inequality that relates to the dispersion of measured expectation values and does not directly apply to time, making the interpretation of its effects on energy conservation less clear compared to its effects on position and momentum. Ultimately, in quantum mechanics, the conservation of expectation values is as far as
  • #1
pivoxa15
2,255
1
In QM only expectation values can be discussed due to the HUP. i.e energy conservation implies the change in the average value of energy with time is 0. So does that mean there are instances where fundalmental physical laws like the conservation of energy are violated? But we will never be able to measure these violated instances due to the HUP?
 
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  • #2
Generally all matrix elements of an operator can be measured, not just expectation values. If conservation of energy were violated, it could be observed, but it hasn't been.
 
  • #3
pivoxa15, are you sure you know what you mean when you are talking about conserving or not conserving energy? The system doesn't necessarely have any precise energy, so I don't understand what it could mean, that the energy is not conserved then.

To my understanding, the conservation of expectation values is as far as the conservation laws go in quantum physics.
 
  • #4
To be precise the HUP is an inequality about the dispersions in measured expectation values of two operators. Time is not an operator in QM so the interpretation of the E-t HUP is not that clear as the position-momentum one.
 

FAQ: Does Quantum Mechanics Suggest Violations of Conservation Laws?

What is a violation of physical laws?

A violation of physical laws occurs when an event or phenomenon appears to defy the established laws and principles of physics. This could be due to errors in measurement or observation, or it could indicate the need for new theories to explain the phenomenon.

Can physical laws be broken?

No, physical laws cannot be broken. They are fundamental principles that govern the behavior of matter and energy in the universe and have been extensively tested and verified through experiments and observations. However, there may be rare instances where they appear to be violated, but further investigation usually reveals a new understanding or a correction in the measurements.

What are some examples of violations of physical laws?

Some examples of potential violations of physical laws include the existence of dark matter and dark energy, which cannot be fully explained by current theories, and the behavior of particles at the quantum level, which can seem to defy traditional concepts of cause and effect. However, these phenomena are still being studied and may eventually be explained within the framework of existing physical laws.

How do scientists investigate potential violations of physical laws?

Scientists use a variety of methods to investigate potential violations of physical laws, including conducting experiments, making observations, and developing mathematical models. They also collaborate with other scientists and experts in related fields to gather evidence and evaluate their findings. Any potential violations are subject to rigorous testing and scrutiny before being accepted as new theories or principles.

What would happen if a physical law was proven to be incorrect?

If a physical law was proven to be incorrect, it would lead to a major shift in our understanding of the universe and could potentially revolutionize our technology and everyday life. However, physical laws have been extensively tested and have stood the test of time, so any new discoveries that challenge them would likely lead to a refinement or expansion of our current understanding rather than a complete overturning of existing theories.

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