In the double-slit experiment, the behavior of electrons (or other quantum particles) is not influenced by whether or not the camera or any other measuring device is functioning properly. The behavior of particles in quantum experiments is governed by the principles of quantum mechanics, which involve inherent probabilistic properties.
In the double-slit experiment, electrons are fired one by one toward a barrier with two narrow slits. Behind the barrier, a screen or detector is placed to observe where the electrons land. Surprisingly, even when electrons are fired individually, they exhibit an interference pattern on the screen, suggesting wave-like behavior.
The reason for this behavior lies in the wave-particle duality of quantum particles. Electrons, as quantum entities, can exhibit both particle-like and wave-like characteristics. When a single electron passes through the double slits, it undergoes a superposition, existing in a combination of states where it simultaneously passes through both slits. This superposition then evolves and interferes with itself, resulting in an interference pattern on the screen.
The key point is that the behavior of the electrons is determined by their quantum wavefunction, which describes the probabilities of different outcomes. The wavefunction evolves according to the laws of quantum mechanics, regardless of any measurement or observation being made.
Now, when a camera or detector is introduced to measure which slit the electron passes through, the act of measurement disturbs the delicate interference pattern. The wavefunction "collapses" into a specific state, destroying the interference and revealing the particle-like behavior. This phenomenon is known as the "collapse of the wavefunction" or "measurement collapse."
Importantly, the electrons themselves don't "know" whether the camera or detector is working properly. Rather, the introduction of a measurement apparatus disrupts the interference pattern due to the inherent nature of quantum measurements. The measurement process interacts with the electron and alters its wavefunction, causing the collapse.
In summary, the behavior of electrons in the double-slit experiment is governed by the principles of quantum mechanics and the wave-particle duality. The electrons do not possess knowledge or awareness of the camera's functionality. The introduction of a measuring device disrupts the interference pattern due to the measurement process itself, altering the quantum state of the electrons.