Mathematical Explanation of One partice in two place

In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of a particle being in multiple locations in quantum physics. However, it is clarified that this is a misconception and not supported by quantum mechanics. The super-position principle is mentioned as a potential explanation, but it is noted that this can be confusing. The conversation concludes by emphasizing that the particle will always be found in one location when measured.
  • #1
Quarlep
257
4
Can you explain me mathematically one particle in many places.
Thanks
 
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  • #2
No. Nobody can, because quantum mechanics does not predict this.
 
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Likes WannabeNewton and bhobba
  • #3
How ?? I know that one particle can be many locations in quantum physics.
 
  • #4
One particle is ever only measured in one location. Probability of where it can be measured is confined in QFT.
 
  • #5
Quarlep said:
How ?? I know that one particle can be many locations in quantum physics.
Potentially (and that is important) the particle "can be in many locations" and this is know as the super-position principle [tex]| \Psi \rangle = \sum c_{ i } \ | x_{ i } \rangle .[/tex] Have you studied quantum mechanics?
 
  • #6
Quarlep said:
How ?? I know that one particle can be many locations in quantum physics.

Well, you know wrongly. QM does not say this. If you have studied QM, you would know this. If you haven't, isn't it better to learn from those who have?
 
  • #7
Quarlep said:
How ?? I know that one particle can be many locations in quantum physics.

You may have been told that, or have read it in some non-serious popularization, but it is just not true. It is a misconception that is handed down from one generation of non-scientists to another.
 
  • #8
samalkhaiat said:
Potentially (and that is important) the particle "can be in many locations" and this is know as the super-position principle [tex]| \Psi \rangle = \sum c_{ i } \ | x_{ i } \rangle .[/tex]

I think this is likely to be confusing.
 
  • #9
samalkhaiat said:
Potentially (and that is important) the particle "can be in many locations" and this is know as the super-position principle [tex]| \Psi \rangle = \sum c_{ i } \ | x_{ i } \rangle .[/tex] Have you studied quantum mechanics?

Vanadium 50 said:
I think this is likely to be confusing.
Ya think? :)

For the original poster: Note that samalkhait said the particle "can be" in many locations, not "is". There are many locations that it can be in, but we will always find it in exactly one of them.
 
  • #10
We can stop piling on now - the question has been answered.
 

FAQ: Mathematical Explanation of One partice in two place

What is the concept of a particle in two places in mathematics?

The concept of a particle in two places in mathematics refers to the study of particles (such as atoms or subatomic particles) that can exist in multiple locations simultaneously. This concept is often explored in quantum mechanics and is known as superposition.

How is the mathematical explanation of a particle in two places different from classical mechanics?

In classical mechanics, particles are described as having a single, definite position at any given time. However, in the mathematical explanation of a particle in two places, the particle can exist in multiple locations at once, making it difficult to predict its exact position.

What is the role of probability in the mathematical explanation of a particle in two places?

In the mathematical explanation of a particle in two places, probability plays a crucial role in describing the likelihood of finding the particle in a particular location. This is due to the uncertainty of the particle's exact position in superposition.

How is the mathematical concept of entanglement related to the explanation of a particle in two places?

Entanglement is a phenomenon in quantum mechanics where two or more particles become connected in such a way that the state of one particle affects the state of the other(s). This is closely related to the explanation of a particle in two places, as the particle's superposition can also be influenced by its environment and other particles it is entangled with.

What practical applications does the mathematical explanation of a particle in two places have?

The mathematical explanation of a particle in two places has many practical applications, such as in quantum computing and cryptography. It also helps in understanding the behavior of subatomic particles and has implications in fields such as chemistry and biology.

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