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Right, but in that case we never observe the wavefunction, the quantum state of the particle, or the particle interacting with itself. In that sense, the wavef
by platz 7y ago
Right, but in that case we never observe the wavefunction, the quantum state of the particle, or the particle interacting with itself.
In that sense, the wavefunction predicts the outcome but it does not have to "real". It is real in Pilot Wave theory, but it could simply be a mathematical or calculational tool .
In either case, you are right that one has to use it get the right result.
Let me ask you a similar question. Are virtual particles, as described with Feynman diagrams, real?
- gizmo686 7y agoI think virtual particles are a different question, as it is at least clear what is being asked (I think they are real, but have seen no convincing arguement one way or the other). With wavefunctions, I am not actually clear on what the object "wavefunction" is. If you are asking if I believe the wave exists independent of the particle, then no. But I also do not think it is merely a calculation tool. My view is that it is analogous to "velocity" in classical mechanics. In that it is a property of the object in question. I do not know if that qualifies as "real" or not.