Quantum entanglement

Quantum entanglement is a quantum mechanical phenomenon in which the quantum states of two or more objects have to be described with reference to each other, even though the individual objects may be spatially separated. This leads to correlations between observable physical properties of the systems. For example, it is possible to prepare two particles in a single quantum state such that when one is observed to be spin-up, the other one will always be observed to be spin-down and vice versa, this despite the fact that it is impossible to predict, according to quantum mechanics, which set of measurements will be observed. As a result, measurements performed on one system seem to be instantaneously influencing other systems entangled with it. However, at this time classical information cannot be transmitted through entanglement faster than the speed of light.

Related Topics:
Quantum mechanical - Quantum state - Spatially separated - Correlation - Information

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Quantum entanglement is the basis for emerging technologies such as quantum computing and quantum cryptography, and has been used for experiments in quantum teleportation. At the same time, it produces some of the more theoretically and philosophically disturbing

Related Topics:
Technologies - Quantum computing - Quantum cryptography - Quantum teleportation

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aspects of the theory, as one can show that the correlations predicted by quantum mechanics are inconsistent with the seemingly

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obvious principle of local realism, which is that information about the state of a system should only be mediated by interactions in its immediate surroundings. Different views of what is actually occurring in the process of quantum entanglement give rise to different interpretations of quantum mechanics.

Related Topics:
Local realism - Interpretations of quantum mechanics

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