wave function collapse

[/weɪv ˈfʌŋkʃən kəˈlæps/]
noun
colapso da função de onda
1. In quantum mechanics, the process by which a quantum system transitions from a superposition of multiple states to a single definite state upon measurement or observation
The wave function collapse occurs when a quantum particle is measured, causing it to assume a definite position.
O colapso da função de onda ocorre quando uma partícula quântica é medida, fazendo-a assumir uma posição definida.
2. The instantaneous change in the quantum state described by the wave function when a measurement is performed
Scientists debate whether wave function collapse is a real physical process or merely a mathematical convenience.
Cientistas discutem se o colapso da função de onda é um processo físico real ou apenas uma conveniência matemática.
This is a specialized scientific term primarily used in academic and research contexts in both Brazil and Portugal. It is central to discussions in quantum physics and theoretical physics courses. The term reflects the Copenhagen interpretation of quantum mechanics, which has been influential in 20th-century physics education in Portuguese-speaking countries.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
state reductionwave packet reductionquantum state collapse
Antonyms / Antônimos
superpositionquantum decoherence

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
colapso da função de onda
Standard term used in academic and scientific contexts
Portugal
colapso da função de onda
Identical usage to Brazilian Portuguese in scientific literature
Technical Academic
redução da função de onda
Alternative technical term emphasizing the reduction aspect

Related Words

quantum mechanicssuperpositionmeasurement problemSchrödinger equationquantum observationCopenhagen interpretation

Related Idioms & Phrases

the measurement problem in quantum mechanics
observer effect in physics
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