On the Role of Entanglement in Schroedinger's Cat Paradox

Abstract

In this paper we re-investigate the core of Schroedinger's 'cat paradox'. We argue that one has to distinguish clearly between superpositions of macroscopic cat states and superpositions of entangled states which comprise both the state of the cat. It is shown, that in the first instance recurrence to decoherence or other mechanisms is not necessary in this special case in order to explain the absence of macroscopic superpositions. Additionally, we present modified versions of two quantum optical experiments as experimenta crucis. Applied rigorously, quantum mechanical formalism reduces the problem to a mere pseudo-paradox.

arXiv comment10 pages; LaTeX; contact information updated

References in corpus (4)

• Towards quantum superpositions of a mirror
• Radiation-pressure cooling and optomechanical instability of a micro-mirror
• Self-cooling of a micro-mirror by radiation pressure
• Rogue decoherence in the formation of a macroscopic atom-molecule superposition

Cited by in corpus (6)

• Review and suggested resolution of the problem of Schrodinger's cat
• Resolving the problem of definite outcomes of measurements
• Solving the measurement problem within standard quantum theory
• Solution of the problem of definite outcomes of quantum measurements
• Two-photon interferometry illuminates quantum measurements
• Re-assessment of the state of Schroedinger's cat, final version