Sunday, 19 April 2015

quantum mechanics - Hidden observers in Double Slit experiments - Do they matter?



I'm still struggling a bit with some ideas around double slit experiments. One that keeps cropping up for me is the role of observers.


Imagine a classic double slit experiment with a hidden observer who has arranged an apparatus to detect which slit the electrons are passing through. This person and their measurements are hidden to you and you have no interaction with them.


So the question is, do you see an interference pattern or not?


Additionally: And if the answer is Not, then is the reason because they "disturbed" the electron (by say firing photons at them) or is it for another reason? And if it is because they "disturbed" the electron, then how is it that unobserved electron's are not disturbed since they certainly interact with other objects, for example other atoms in the matter around the slit(s) will feel a slight gravitational tug as it passes through.




No comments:

Post a Comment

Understanding Stagnation point in pitot fluid

What is stagnation point in fluid mechanics. At the open end of the pitot tube the velocity of the fluid becomes zero.But that should result...