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Quantum Mechanics

The “Many Worlds” theory, which is an interpretation of QM, centers upon the nature of the probability wave-function. What happens to the infinite number of quantum possibilities? 

 


 

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In previous articles we’ve reviewed alternative QM interpretations to that of Copenhagen. The leading opponent we’ve seen to be “Many Worlds” theory.

We’ve also discussed, as per the assertion of Scientific American, that the essential QM debate revolves around the nature of the probability wave-function.

The wave-function is known to be a valid concept as it’s well supported by mathematics; indeed, the function itself is a mathematical construct.

And if the wave-function represents infinite quantum possibilities, what happens to all of these possible outcomes?

It should be noted that not all reviewers accept the wave-function to be a math concept; instead, some see it as a particle in another form, the particle as a wave, and, therefore, a material object of the world. But see Heisenberg’s answer to this in the previous writing.

Nevertheless, among those who see the wave-function as representing infinite possibilities, the “Many Worlds” theory posits that this manifold array of possibilities, each one of them, finds expression in a real world – not in this world, it is suggested, but in an infinite number of worlds or universes, popping into existence, to accommodate the infinite possibilities.

As we’ve seen in the earlier writings, there is no scientific evidence for this brash belief, but, even so, in many quarters, it’s hailed as the finest wisdom.

 

 

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