Understanding Quantum Mechanics V: Quantum Measurements

In the previous posts we have seen that unobservable strands whose observable crossing switches define Planck’s quantum of action ℏ can explain may aspects of quantum theory. (In fact all, as we will see.) But can they describe measurements?

Here is a way. Let us take the strand description of the double slit experiment with photons. Here are three descriptions: with waves, with Feynman’s rotating arrows, and with strands:

But then, why do we see only small spots on the screen beyond the two slits? This is what happens:

The strands of the screen project the superposition on one position, by dissolving the addition region. In other words, the strands of the screen lead to the collapse of the photon state, or equivalently, to its decoherence. The strands of the screen do so by pushing the regions of constructive interference together.

The process takes time. This is the decoherence time.

The process is apparently superluminal, because it happnes all over the place, and because there is no limit to the strand speed (they carry no energy and are unobservable.)

The process selects one random outcome.

Teh process works because the many strands are so numerous, that only the collapse (the decoherence) has a non-negligible probability.

In other words, the strand model explains everything we always wanted to know about quantum measurement.

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Maybe you will say: I never heard about this. And you are right. Therefore, check it together with your friends and criticize it! More details and checks are found in this text. Enjoy it.