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chrisphd · Jul 7, 2007, 05:19 am

Briefly, according to quantum mechanics, on the quantum level certain "properties" of particles are in a superposition of states and randomly adopt a defined state when measured. Suppose the quantum interpretation we adopt is not the hidden variable theory, then the state the quantum particle adopts is completely probabalistic/random.

Let us say that we have a quantum particle, P, which may adopt either a spin state X or spin state Y, with a 50% chance of either one. We measure P and it adopts state X.

Now, suppose one is capable of some form of time travel, say through a wormhole, in which one is able "view the past" through a screen or similar, and one were to view the time prior to measuring the state of P. The observer then takes a new measurement of P. According to quantum theory, the measurment of P should be completely random, and therefore, we cannot assume that P will adopt the state of X. As a result, one cannot "view the past" without actually altering it, which in fact may result in a new future which affects the observers. (for example, one viewer may be Schordinger's Cat, who views his death in the past.)

How is this resolved.

Jul 7, 2007, 05:19 am	#1 (permalink) (top)
chrisphd Chrisphd Posts: 163	Question mechanics/ Time travel paradox Briefly, according to quantum mechanics, on the quantum level certain "properties" of particles are in a superposition of states and randomly adopt a defined state when measured. Suppose the quantum interpretation we adopt is not the hidden variable theory, then the state the quantum particle adopts is completely probabalistic/random. Let us say that we have a quantum particle, P, which may adopt either a spin state X or spin state Y, with a 50% chance of either one. We measure P and it adopts state X. Now, suppose one is capable of some form of time travel, say through a wormhole, in which one is able "view the past" through a screen or similar, and one were to view the time prior to measuring the state of P. The observer then takes a new measurement of P. According to quantum theory, the measurment of P should be completely random, and therefore, we cannot assume that P will adopt the state of X. As a result, one cannot "view the past" without actually altering it, which in fact may result in a new future which affects the observers. (for example, one viewer may be Schordinger's Cat, who views his death in the past.) How is this resolved.