Quantum Mechanics
In quantum mechanics, a measurement is an action that determines the location of an object, its momentum, its polarity (if it is a photon), etc. Before a measurement is made, the wavefunction of what is to be measured gives the range of probabilities for the outcomes of measurement, but when a measurement is accomplished that results in what is called the collapse of the wavefunction− at which time there is one definite value rather than a range of possible values. The unambiguous meaning of the measurement problem is an unresolved fundamental problem in quantum mechanics.
Read more about this topic: Measurement, Definitions and Theories
Famous quotes containing the words quantum and/or mechanics:
“A personality is an indefinite quantum of traits which is subject to constant flux, change, and growth from the birth of the individual in the world to his death. A character, on the other hand, is a fixed and definite quantum of traits which, though it may be interpreted with slight differences from age to age and actor to actor, is nevertheless in its essentials forever fixed.”
—Hubert C. Heffner (1901–1985)
“It is only the impossible that is possible for God. He has given over the possible to the mechanics of matter and the autonomy of his creatures.”
—Simone Weil (1909–1943)