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arXiv:1504.03836

Popper's Experiment and the Uncertainty Principle

António Cardoso

Published Apr 15, 2015• 0 citations
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Abstract

In this paper we look at a particular realization of Popper's thought experiment with correlated quantum particles and argue that, from the point of view of a nonlinear quantum physics and contrary to the orthodox interpretation, Heisenberg's uncertainty principle is violated. Moreover, we show that this kind of experiments can easily be explained in an intuitive manner if we are willing to take a nonlinear approach.

DOI
10.48550/arxiv.1504.03836

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Comment on "Experimental realization of Popper's experiment: Violation of the uncertainty principle?"

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In this paper we look at a particular realization of Popper's thought experiment with correlated quantum particles and argue that, from the point of view of a nonlinear quantum physics and contrary to the orthodox interpretation, Heisenberg's uncertainty principle is violated. Moreover, we show that this kind of experiments can easily be explained in an intuitive manner if we are willing to take a nonlinear approach.
Uncertainty, being perhaps the most basic principle of quantum mechanics, distinguishes the world of quantum phenomena from the realm of classical physics. Quantum entanglement, being perhaps the most surprising consequence of quantum mechanics, on the other hand apparently suggests paradoxes relating to or violations of the quantum mechanical uncertainty principle in some experimental situations. Popper's thought experiment is an example. We wish to report a recent realization of Popper's experiment. The experimental data show that there appears to be a violation of the uncertainty principle. This is, however as we shall argue in this paper, only an illusion provided that we take the teachings of quantum mechanics seriously.
Popper invented a thought experiment that is alleged to test the Copenhagen interpretation of Quantum mechanics, though not the theory itself. In particular it is alleged to test the application of the Heisenberg uncertainty principle to indirect measurements. The experiment is similar to the EPR thought experiment, but it suffers from some technical flaws. These flaws are examined to see if they affect the validity of the argument; so long as they can be alleviated by technical means, the argument retains its force. The experiment has been recently instantiated, with some resolutions of these technical flaws. The results, on face value seem to vindicate Popper and to indicate a violation of the uncertainty principle. Nevertheless, Kim and Shih, who carried out the experiment, give their own interpretation that suggests that the principle should be considered intact but that the correct way to understand the results is to adopt a new metaphysics. Others suggest different reasons why the results do not amount to a violation of the uncertainty principle. Despite a variety of responses, which are carefully examined, the general point that an interpretation cannot alter the empirical basis of a theory is shown to be true. The importance of Rigolid's work in this connection is emphasized.
An entangled pair of photons (1 and 2) are emitted to opposite directions. A narrow slit is placed in the path of photon 1 to provide precise knowledge of its position on the yyy axis and this also determines the precise yyy position of its twin, photon 2, due to quantum entanglement. Is photon 2 going to experience a greater uncertainty in momentum, i.e., a greater Δpy\Delta p_{y}Δpy​, due to the precise knowledge of its position yyy? The experimental data shows $\Delta y\Delta p_{y}<\hbar $ for photon 2. Can this recent realization of the historical thought experiment of Karl Popper signal a violation of the uncertainty principle?
A thought experiment, proposed by Karl Popper, which has been experimentally realized recently, is critically examined. A basic flaw in Popper's argument which has also been prevailing in subsequent debates, is pointed out. It is shown that Popper's experiment can be understood easily within the Copenhagen interpretation of quantum mechanics. An alternate experiment, based on discrete variables, is proposed, which constitutes Popper's test in a clearer way. It refutes the argument of absence of nonlocality in quantum mechanics.
A thought experiment, proposed by Karl Popper, which has been experimentally realized recently, is critically examined. A basic flaw in Popper's argument which has also been prevailing in subsequent debates, is pointed out. It is shown that Popper's experiment can be understood easily within the Copenhagen interpretation of quantum mechanics. An alternate experiment, based on discrete variables, is proposed, which constitutes Popper's test in a clearer way. It refutes the argument of absence of nonlocality in quantum mechanics.