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How would that work as current understanding from quantum theory is that we cannot predict which atom decays next? Is there a quantum algorithm that can do that
by RandomLensman 4mo ago
How would that work as current understanding from quantum theory is that we cannot predict which atom decays next? Is there a quantum algorithm that can do that?
- GoblinSlayer 4mo agoThe decay process is calculated as sqrt(1-exp(-t/T))|1> + sqrt(exp(-t/T))|0>
- RandomLensman 4mo agoHow do you use that to predict which atom decays next?
- GoblinSlayer 4mo agoThe decayed state exists, it's the second term sqrt(exp(-t/T))|0>
- RandomLensman 4mo agoHow do you predict which atom decays next from there?
- GoblinSlayer 4mo agoSince the decayed state exists, then any. Your question tries to assume sqrt(exp(-t/T))=0, which is false.
- RandomLensman 4mo agoMy point was that we cannot predict which atom decays next. If you want to claim that we could predict which specific atom decays next, I'd really like to see a lot more explaintion and exposition as it would upend current understanding.
- GoblinSlayer 4mo agoThe trick is that you can't predict something that doesn't happen even if you feel otherwise.
- RandomLensman 4mo agoAtoms don't decay? Radioactive decay isn't a thing? But at least we agree there is nothing we can predict.
- GoblinSlayer 4mo agoWe can predict decay process as sqrt(1-exp(-t/T))|1> + sqrt(exp(-t/T))|0>
- RandomLensman 4mo agoIf I were to give you ten atoms of Po210, could you tell me which one will be next to turn into Pb206. What's your algorithm to do that?
- GoblinSlayer 4mo agoMy algorithm is at least to not predict it as not what it is. All ten atoms decay according to the formula above.