Quantum entanglement occurs when two or more particles become correlated in such a way that the state of one particle cannot be described independently of the others. This correlation persists even when the entangled particles are physically separated by large distances. The process of quantum entanglement can be explained as follows:
Preparation of an Entangled State: Two particles, often referred to as "entangled particles," are initially brought into proximity and interact with each other. This interaction could involve various physical processes such as collision, decay, or interaction with a common source.
Superposition of States: The interaction between the particles results in their quantum states becoming entangled. This means that the combined state of the particles cannot be expressed as a simple combination of individual states. Instead, it exists in a superposition of multiple possible states, where each possible state has a certain probability associated with it.
Measurement and Correlation: When one of the entangled particles is measured, its quantum state "collapses" into a particular outcome. Remarkably, this collapse instantaneously affects the state of the other entangled particle, regardless of the physical distance between them. The state of the second particle becomes correlated or linked to the measurement outcome of the first particle. This correlation holds even if the particles are far apart and seemingly unaffected by external influences.
It's important to note that quantum entanglement does not involve any direct transfer of information or energy between the entangled particles. Instead, it describes a peculiar correlation that exists between the particles' properties. This phenomenon is still not fully understood, and its interpretation and implications continue to be subjects of scientific inquiry and investigation.
Quantum entanglement has been experimentally verified and has significant implications for various fields, including quantum computing, quantum communication, and fundamental studies of quantum mechanics.