Schrödinger’s Cat and the Meaning of It All

Frank S. Levin

Published Sep 21, 2017• 0 citations

Abstract

Abstract Chapter 15 deals with various unresolved issues, such as how measurements are to be described, whether they induce collapse of linear superpositions, and if so, what the result should be. Another is whether quantum mechanics applies to macroscopic measuring devices, and if not, why not. Some of these issues are addressed via the Schrödinger cat-in-the-box experiment, in particular whether the cat is ever half alive and half dead; analogs of the corresponding Schrödinger-cat state (not involving a cat) have been studied experimentally. For Schrödinger, it was ridiculous to apply quantum mechanics to macroscopic situations, nevertheless, it has been explored by many physicists. Whether measurements induce collapse and whether collapse arises in various formulations/interpretations of quantum mechanics is examined in the context of generic measuring instruments known as pointer devices. Various conclusions have been reached, though consensus has not, despite only one interpretation having been verified experimentally.

DOI: 10.1093/oso/9780198808275.003.0016

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