Cloud Hosting

A new study in quantum cosmology proposes an innovative approach to address one of the oldest puzzles in physics: the transition from quantum to classical. This transition is crucial for understanding how our universe, full of well-defined stars and galaxies, emerged from a primitive quantum state where things could be in multiple states at once.

The studys researchers point out that the classical decoherence model, which explains how a quantum system can lose its quantum nature due to interactions with its environment, is not sufficient for the universe. Since the universe doesnt have an external observer to trigger this transition, we must seek other mechanisms that allow quantum probabilities to collapse into a defined reality.

To understand the paradox of quantum superposition, the famous thought experiment of Schrdingers cat is often mentioned. Imagine a cat in a box with a device that can release poison if a radioactive atom decays. Until the box is opened, the cat is both alive and dead, depending on whether the atom has decayed. This phenomenon of quantum superposition illustrates the peculiarity of quantum mechanics: things can exist in multiple states at once until they are observed or measured.

In the universe, however, no one opens the box. So, how do we go from a state of multiple possibilities to a universe where things are solid and predictable?

Scientists propose a new model called spontaneous wave function collapse. This model suggests that quantum probabilities collapse on their own without the need for an external observer. Its as if Schrdingers cat decides for itself whether it is alive or dead, without anyone opening the box to check.

The study shows that spontaneous collapse can be applied to general relativity models, where the universe is seen as evolving spacetime. From a quantum superposition of different spacetime geometries, spontaneous collapse can select a single well-defined geometry. This might explain how the universe transformed from a chaotic and quantum state into something classical and tangible.

Additionally, this idea might offer a solution to the cosmological constant problem, which is the dark energy that seems to drive the universes accelerated expansion. Instead of relying on complex multiverse theories or anthropic principles, spontaneous collapse suggests that the cosmological constant emerges as a result of the collapse of a superposition of different possible values.

The authors of the study point out that this approach isnt limited to a specific model but can be applied to other contexts in quantum cosmology. While it doesnt completely solve the problem of time in quantum gravity, it provides a promising framework for exploring the universe and its origins.

Gaona-Reyes, J.L., Menndez-Pidal, L., Faizal, M. et al. Spontaneous collapse models lead to the emergence of classicality of the Universe. J. High Energ. Phys. 2024, 193 (2024). doi.org/10.1007/JHEP02(2024)193

In 2021, the Taam Ja Blue Hole was discovered in Chetumal Bay in the southeastern

The Fortress of Vilars dArbeca is a unique archaeological site in Iberian and European protohistory

A deep shock must have seized those attending the party at Donaueschingen Castle on the

322 B.C. was one of the most disastrous years in the history of Athens, if

Classic piracy still retains that aura of romanticism and carefree adventure, which it gained primarily

Il Plastico is a model of ancient Rome created by Italian archaeologist and architect Italo

A chultn is a type of underground bottle-shaped reservoir used to collect rainwater and is

For years, the common belief has been that pre-agricultural hunter-gatherer societies relied heavily on meat.

NASA has conducted a study that explores the flow and storage of water in the

For sports enthusiasts, iconic locations like Fenway Park, Wembley Stadium, or Centre Court at Wimbledon

The archaeological excavation in the La Robine necropolis, near the ancient city of Narbo Martius

Numerous gravel quarries in the middle Elbe valley near Magdeburg have already yielded many significant

Loading...

Something went wrong. Please refresh the page and/or try again.

Read the original here:

No One Opens Schrdinger's Cat's Box: Why Doesn't the Universe Behave Like Quantum Particles? - LBV Magazine