Does the breakdown of the wave function need a concsious observer?

In summary, in experiments demonstrating the collapse of the wave function, a conscious observer is not necessary. An observing instrument can achieve the same result on its own. The idea that the instrument interferes with the experiment and causes the collapse is false. This misconception is often perpetuated to add mystery and excitement to the concept of quantum mechanics.
  • #1
cezalinho
3
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Someone told me that in the experiments which display the collapse of the wave function, there is no need for a conscious observer. They said if we left an observing instrument on its own it would manage to do the same thing. Is this true? In fact this person thinks that the instrument interferes with the experiments and that’s why the wave function collapses.
 
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  • #2
no. its just how the experiment is setup.

even if no human/life is observing you can still "collapse the wave function" via instrumentation/setup.

nothing to do with consciousness...though many people/webpages love to link it that way...to make it more mysterious/fun...;)
 
  • #3
San K said:
no. its just how the experiment is setup.

nothing to do with consciousness...though many people/webpages love to link it that way...to make it more mysterious/fun...;)

Exactly, that's quantum hype! :-)
 
  • #4
Someone asked this question about a week ago I think. Perhaps someone who remembers the thread title can link to it.

Edit: I think this thread from two days ago is the one I only vaguely remembered. :smile:
 
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FAQ: Does the breakdown of the wave function need a concsious observer?

What is the wave function and why is it important?

The wave function is a mathematical description of the quantum state of a system. It contains all the information about the possible outcomes of a measurement, including the probabilities of those outcomes. It is important because it allows us to make predictions about the behavior of quantum systems.

Does the breakdown of the wave function require a conscious observer?

This is a highly debated topic in quantum physics. Some interpretations, such as the Copenhagen interpretation, suggest that a conscious observer is necessary for the wave function to collapse and for a specific outcome to occur. However, other interpretations, such as the Many Worlds interpretation, do not require a conscious observer for the wave function to break down.

How do scientists study the breakdown of the wave function?

Scientists use various experimental techniques, such as the double-slit experiment, to study the breakdown of the wave function. These experiments involve measuring the behavior of quantum systems and observing how the wave function changes as a result.

Can non-human entities, such as computers, act as conscious observers?

This is a controversial question and there is no clear answer. Some argue that any entity that can make a measurement and record the outcome can act as a conscious observer, while others argue that consciousness is a uniquely human trait and cannot be replicated by non-human entities.

What are some potential implications of the breakdown of the wave function for our understanding of reality?

The breakdown of the wave function challenges our traditional understanding of reality and raises questions about the nature of consciousness and the role of the observer in shaping reality. It also has implications for the development of quantum technologies, such as quantum computing, which rely on the principles of quantum mechanics.

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