Is There a Mistake in the Spin Quantum Paradox Calculation?

In summary, the conversation discusses the spin 1/2 measurement matrices B and A, and how it is easy to show that B^2=A. A normalized eigenstate of B is also mentioned, and it is shown that B acting on this state gives the same state with an eigenvalue of 1. It is then stated that the expected value of B^2 is equal to 1, but the expected value of A is less than 1 since its eigenvectors are not along the x-axis. This leads to a contradiction, as 1 is not less than 1. The mistake in this logic is not clear.
  • #1
jk22
731
24
Suppose we consider the spin 1/2 measurement matrices

[tex]B=\frac{1}{\sqrt{2}}\left(\begin{array}{cc} 1 & 1\\1&-1\end{array}\right)[/tex] and A=diag(1,-1)

it's easy to show that [tex]B^2=A[/tex]
and a normalized eigenstate of B [tex]|\Psi\rangle=\left(\begin{array}{c}a\\b\end{array}\right)[/tex] with eigenvalue 1 : [tex]B|\Psi\rangle=|\Psi\rangle[/tex]

then we obvisouly have [tex]\langle B^2\rangle=\langle\Psi|BB|\Psi\rangle=1[/tex]

But [tex]\langle A\rangle=a^2-b^2<1[/tex] since the eigenvector of A are not along x.

This implies that 1<1 ?? which is wrong, but I can't understand where the mistake hides.
 
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  • #2
jk22 said:
it's easy to show that [tex]B^2=A[/tex]

I didn't read the whole post thoroughly, so there might be other mistakes, but is it? It would seem to me that B2=1 :-p.
 

FAQ: Is There a Mistake in the Spin Quantum Paradox Calculation?

What is the spin quantum paradox?

The spin quantum paradox is a thought experiment that highlights the counterintuitive nature of quantum mechanics, specifically in relation to the concept of spin. It involves a hypothetical scenario where a particle's spin is measured along different axes, leading to contradictory results.

How does the spin quantum paradox challenge traditional physics?

The spin quantum paradox challenges traditional physics by demonstrating that the behavior of particles on a quantum level cannot be explained by classical physics. It shows that particles can have contradictory properties and can exist in multiple states simultaneously, which goes against the principles of classical mechanics.

What is the significance of the spin quantum paradox in quantum computing?

The spin quantum paradox is significant in quantum computing because it demonstrates the importance of controlling and manipulating the spin state of particles. This is crucial for performing quantum operations and creating quantum computers that can solve complex problems much faster than classical computers.

How does the spin quantum paradox relate to the Heisenberg uncertainty principle?

The spin quantum paradox is related to the Heisenberg uncertainty principle because it shows that the more precisely we measure one property of a particle, the less precise our measurement of another property will be. In the case of spin, the paradox highlights the uncertainty in measuring the spin along different axes.

Can the spin quantum paradox be resolved?

There is currently no consensus on how to resolve the spin quantum paradox. Some physicists argue that it highlights the limitations of our understanding of quantum mechanics, while others believe that it points to the need for a new theory that can reconcile the contradictory results. Further research and experimentation are needed to fully understand and potentially resolve this paradox.

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