Physicists have proposed a revolutionary theory that challenges our understanding of time, suggesting it may be an emergent property of quantum entanglement rather than a fixed, external phenomenon.
The concept of quantum entanglement has long puzzled physicists, but the new theory proposes that this mysterious connection between particles separated by vast distances may hold the key to understanding the nature of time itself. According to lead author Alessandro Coppo, “The correlation between the clock and the system creates the emergence of time, a fundamental ingredient in our lives.”
Researchers applied the Page and Wootters mechanism to two entangled quantum states: a vibrating harmonic oscillator and a set of tiny magnets acting as a clock. Their findings revealed perfect alignment with the Schrödinger equation, predicting quantum object behavior.
The inconsistency between quantum mechanics and Einstein’s theory of general relativity has long been a stumbling block in the quest for a unified “theory of everything.” However, this new research offers a potential solution to the problem of time, addressing the discrepancy between these two fundamental theories.
According to the proposed theory, time emerges through quantum entanglement, potentially reconciling the conflicting perspectives of quantum mechanics and general relativity. The researchers took their investigation a step further by applying their calculations to macroscopic objects, suggesting that time’s flow is a consequence of entanglement even on large scales.
While some scientists urge caution, citing uncertain practical implications, others see exciting possibilities for future research. Developing experimental methods to test the Page and Wootters mechanism, exploring the role of entanglement in macroscopic systems, and investigating potential modifications to quantum physics and general relativity are just a few areas of inquiry.
This groundbreaking research offers a tantalizing glimpse into a new understanding of reality, where time itself may be a product of the intricate dance of quantum particles. As we delve deeper into the nature of time, we may find ourselves on the brink of a paradigm shift in physics.
Source: https://dailygalaxy.com/2024/12/new-research-challenges-our-understanding-time-is-it-merely-illusion