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Interpretations of QM
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Copenhagen, many-worlds and others.
Copenhagen (collapse), many-worlds (no collapse; branching), de Broglie–Bohm (pilot wave), and others make the same predictions but differ in the picture of reality.
Experiments can't yet distinguish them.
Choice is partly philosophical.
In more detail
Interpretations of quantum mechanics offer different accounts of what the wavefunction and measurement mean, including the Copenhagen, many-worlds and pilot wave views. They all predict the same experimental results.
Real-world uses
- Interpretations guide the thinking of researchers in foundations.
- They influence the development of quantum information concepts.
- Physicists choose an interpretation of quantum mechanics to guide their thinking, though all agree on the predictions.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is correct?
No consensus exists, and they all make the same predictions for experiments.
What is the Copenhagen interpretation?
A widely taught view that focuses on the role of measurement and probability.
Which interpretation is correct?
No consensus exists. Copenhagen, many-worlds and others all match experiments, so the choice is a matter of philosophy.
Related topics in Quantum Mechanics
Bell's inequalities · EPR paradox · Decoherence · Quantum computing: qubits · Quantum gates · Quantum cryptography