Quantum field theory and the collapse of the wave function

In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of wave functions and quantum fields in relation to the collapse of state vectors. It is mentioned that state vectors collapse to other state vectors and are different from quantum fields. The speaker expresses appreciation for the explanation and plans to further research the topic.
  • #1
Joao
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Hi everyone! Sorry for the bad english!

So, just a quick doubt... Does things collapse from a wave of probability into a quantum field or is the wave in the quantum field the probabilistic wave itself?

An example to make it clearer:
Suppose we have an atom, it enters an atom interferometer, it takes both paths simultaneously and exists into one exit or the other...

So, when its traveling inside the interferometer, is its travel represented as an wave in its various fields (like the up quark field, the down quark field) and this wave is a probabilistic wave or does the atom stops being represented as waves in the quantum fields to be represented as a probabilistic wave, and when its measured it collapses into the quantum field?

Thanks! =)
 
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  • #2
Joao said:
Does things collapse from a wave of probability into a quantum field or is the wave in the quantum field the probabilistic wave itself?
neither. State vectors (which are wave functions in the simplest cases only) collapse to other state vectors, and are very different objects from quantum fields.
 
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  • #3
A. Neumaier said:
neither. State vectors (wave functions in the simplest cases only) collapse to other state vectors, and are very different objects from quantum fields.

Thanks a lot for the answer! Now that's a possibility I didn't considered and, to be honest, I don't fully understand! I'll try to look more into what you just said! Thanks!
 

FAQ: Quantum field theory and the collapse of the wave function

1. What is quantum field theory?

Quantum field theory is a theoretical framework that combines the principles of quantum mechanics and special relativity to describe the behavior of subatomic particles and their interactions. It is a fundamental theory in physics that has been successful in explaining many phenomena, including the behavior of particles at high energies.

2. What is the wave function collapse in quantum mechanics?

The wave function collapse is a phenomenon in quantum mechanics where a particle's wave function, which describes its probability of being in a certain state, changes suddenly and unpredictably when it is observed or measured. This collapse is a fundamental aspect of quantum mechanics and is still not fully understood.

3. How does quantum field theory explain the collapse of the wave function?

In quantum field theory, the collapse of the wave function is explained through the concept of measurement. According to the theory, when a measurement is made, the observer becomes entangled with the observed particle, causing the wave function to collapse into a definite state. This is known as the measurement problem in quantum mechanics.

4. What is the role of the observer in the collapse of the wave function?

The role of the observer in the collapse of the wave function is a highly debated topic in quantum mechanics. Some interpretations suggest that the observer's consciousness plays a role in the collapse, while others argue that it is simply the act of measurement that causes the collapse. The exact nature of the observer's role is still a subject of ongoing research and debate.

5. How does the collapse of the wave function impact our understanding of reality?

The collapse of the wave function challenges our understanding of reality, as it suggests that the behavior of particles at the subatomic level is inherently unpredictable and influenced by the act of observation. It also raises questions about the nature of reality and the role of consciousness in shaping it. However, many scientists argue that the collapse of the wave function is simply a mathematical description of the measurement process and does not have any implications for our understanding of reality.

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