Probabilities for Different Stern Gerlach Analyzers
Highlights of the activity
- Students are placed into small groups and asked to experimentally measure the probability that $\vert + \rangle$ particle with $z$-orientation will be in the $\vert + \rangle$ or $\vert - \rangle $ state using two $z$-oriented Stern-Gerlach devices.
- Students will then complete the handout provided by performing similar probability experiments with all possible combinations of two $x$,$y$, or $z$-oriented Stern-Gerlach devices.
Reasons to spend class time on the activity
Before performing this activity, many students wouldn't think that the results would change drastically depending on the orientation of the Stern-Gerlach devices. This activity shows students that the orientation of the Stern-Gerlach device is very important to probability results. Doing this activity also gives students the opportunity to practice using the fourth postulate of quantum mechanics to compare theoretical predictions to the experimental results.