Is there no cause and effect relationship in quantum mechanics?

In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of causality in quantum mechanics and how it differs from classical physics. It is noted that there is a cause and effect relationship in QM, but it may not be as readily apparent or well understood. Different interpretations of QM also offer different explanations for causality. The Bohmian interpretation is mentioned as one that maintains a similar understanding of causality to classical physics.
  • #1
Ahmed Abdullah
203
3
i.e things happen for no cause.


Thx
 
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  • #2
What's the point in asking questions that no one can currently answer?
On second reading, there is cause and effect relationship in QM, it depends on what part of it you are interested in. So it'd be useful if you could ask a specific question on specific QM phenomenon.
 
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  • #3
Cause and effect is a foundation of classical physics which is less well understood in quantum mechanics. But QM is a less intuitive formulation of physics so casuality may not be as readily apparent. For example, classical causality does not seem to be part of entanglement yet just how it works I don't think is agreed upon.

So I'd rather say that in parts of QM it is not yet understood how causality works.
 
  • #4
Ahmed,
Different interpretations of QM offer different answers to your question. If you want to have an intuitive interpretation in which causes exist similarly to that in classical physics,
see about the Bohmian interpretation.
 

FAQ: Is there no cause and effect relationship in quantum mechanics?

What is quantum mechanics and how does it relate to cause and effect?

Quantum mechanics is a branch of physics that describes the behavior and interactions of subatomic particles. It is based on the principle of uncertainty, which states that certain properties of particles, such as their position and momentum, cannot be simultaneously known with absolute certainty. This can make it difficult to establish a clear cause and effect relationship in quantum mechanics, as the behavior of particles can seem random and unpredictable.

Is there really no cause and effect in quantum mechanics?

While it may seem that way at first, there is still a cause and effect relationship at play in quantum mechanics. The uncertainty principle does not mean that particles behave randomly, but rather that we cannot know their exact behavior in advance. The interactions between particles are still governed by fundamental laws and principles.

How do scientists study cause and effect in quantum mechanics?

Scientists use mathematical models and experiments to study the behavior of particles in quantum mechanics. These models allow them to make predictions about the behavior of particles and test them through experiments. While the uncertainty principle may make it challenging, scientists are still able to establish cause and effect relationships in quantum mechanics through these methods.

Can quantum mechanics be reconciled with classical physics, which is based on cause and effect?

There are ongoing debates and theories about how quantum mechanics and classical physics can be reconciled. Some theories propose that there may be underlying principles or hidden variables that can explain the seemingly random behavior of particles in quantum mechanics. However, these theories are still being explored and there is no definitive answer at this time.

How does the concept of entanglement fit into the cause and effect relationship in quantum mechanics?

Entanglement is a phenomenon in quantum mechanics where two particles, even when separated by large distances, can affect each other's behavior. This may seem to contradict the principle of causality, but it does not necessarily mean that there is no cause and effect at play. It simply means that the relationship between particles is more complex and interconnected than we previously thought.

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