Quantum superposition is a fundamental concept in quantum mechanics that describes a state in which a particle or system exists in multiple possible states simultaneously. This means that until a measurement is made, the particle can be in a combination or "superposition" of different states with different probabilities.
When we make a measurement on a quantum system, it interacts with the measuring apparatus, and the state of the system "collapses" into one of the possible measurement outcomes. This process is known as wave function collapse or the measurement problem in quantum mechanics.
The act of measurement does indeed involve an interaction between the quantum system and the measuring apparatus, and this interaction can potentially disturb the original state of the particle. This disturbance is often referred to as the "observer effect" or the "measurement disturbance." It arises from the inherent nature of the interaction between the measuring apparatus and the particle being measured.
In many cases, this disturbance is negligible and doesn't significantly alter the measured state. However, in certain experiments where high precision or delicate quantum states are involved, the disturbance caused by measurement can become more significant and influence the observed outcome.
It's important to note that the measurement process itself is still an active area of research and debate in quantum mechanics. There are different interpretations of quantum mechanics that offer different perspectives on the nature of measurement and the role of the observer.
In summary, the act of measurement in quantum mechanics can indeed interfere with the state of a particle, and the information about the particle is typically obtained through interactions with other particles or the measuring apparatus. The exact details and consequences of this measurement process are still subjects of ongoing research and exploration in the field of quantum mechanics.