A Physical Model for Quantum Measurements

Highlights of the activity

1. This kinesthetic activity is designed to help upper-division undergraduate students understand the probabilistic nature of quantum measurement.
2. Students use an envelope and slips of paper to model a quantum state.
3. The whole class discussion focuses on using the model to understand the probabilistic nature of quantum measurement.

Reasons to spend class time on the activity

Students have a difficult time understanding the probabilistic (not deterministic) nature of the formalism of quantum mechanics. This activity proposes a model for thinking about what happens to a quantum system when a measurement is made.

Reflections

• Reflections from the original implementation.

• Reflections from "official" adapters/adopters.

• Reflections from the general public.

Instructor's Guide

• Wiki version