According to quantum mechanics, physical processes do not occur instantaneously because they are governed by the laws of quantum dynamics, which include principles such as wave-particle duality, superposition, and quantum entanglement. The reason why certain events, such as changes in mass, do not happen instantaneously can be attributed to several fundamental aspects of quantum mechanics:
Wave-particle duality: Quantum mechanics describes particles (such as electrons or photons) as having both particle-like and wave-like properties. These particles are represented by wave functions that evolve over time. The evolution of a wave function is governed by the Schrödinger equation, which describes how the wave function changes dynamically. The wave function determines the probability distribution of finding a particle in a particular state, and this distribution evolves gradually as the system interacts with its environment.
Quantum superposition: Quantum systems can exist in superposition states, where they simultaneously occupy multiple states or configurations. For example, an electron can exist in a superposition of different energy levels. However, when a measurement is made on the system, the superposition collapses to a single state, corresponding to the measurement outcome. This collapse occurs probabilistically, according to the probabilities dictated by the wave function. The gradual change in the probabilities over time reflects the gradual evolution of the system.
Quantum entanglement: Quantum entanglement is a phenomenon where two or more particles become correlated in such a way that their quantum states are intrinsically linked. When particles are entangled, changes to one particle's state can instantaneously affect the state of the other, regardless of the distance between them. However, this does not violate the principle of causality or allow for instantaneous communication, as the specific outcome of the measurement on one particle is not determined until a measurement is performed, and the information cannot be used to transmit signals faster than the speed of light.
These aspects of quantum mechanics collectively imply that physical processes occur gradually and probabilistically, rather than instantaneously. The evolution of quantum systems is governed by the laws of quantum dynamics, which involve continuous changes to the system's wave function and the gradual emergence of specific outcomes through measurement or interaction with the environment. The probabilistic nature of quantum mechanics is consistent with the observations and experiments conducted in the field, providing a robust framework for understanding the behavior of particles and systems at the quantum level.