How to model quantum indeterminacy in the classroom with a switch-pitch ball!
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Theory
Quantum indeterminacy is the condition whereby a system can be said to simultaneously exist in two or more states. For instance, an electron that has an unmeasured spin state can be said to be both spin-up and spin-down simultaneously, where its final state is only determined at the point of measurement. The open wave function (which will give you the probability of the final state) is collapsed at the point of measurement to show the one and only final state.
This demonstration uses a Hoberman Switch-Pitch ball (affordably available at many online toy stores) to show this effect at a scale viewable by an entire classroom. The ball has two colours, which can be randomized by spinning the ball in the air. Tossing it upwards with a spin does this nicely. The final colour of the ball is decided by how and when the ball is caught (or otherwise lands).
Apparatus
- Hoberman Switch-Pitch Ball
Procedure
- Demonstrate the colour switching ability of the ball by manually flipping the ball's structure.
- Toss the ball straight up (or even better, toss it to a student) with enough spin to trigger the potential colour switch.
- While in the air, the ball has a 50-50 change of finishing as one of its colours.
- Catch the ball and show the final colour.
- If there is time, do it multiple times ti show the 50-50 odds of the final outcome.
