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Classical theory predicts a precise trajectory for particles which means precise
specified locations and momenta at each point.
Then one can perform some experiment at certain time intervals (o points) to
locate actual position of the particle to validate the proposition. In principle,
match between the predicted and observed trajectory would be close to 100%.
*Everyday experience:
Classical theory allows translational, rotational, and vibrational modes of
motions to adopt any energy there is no restriction.
What is the size of the disturbance caused by observing an object?
In classical theory size is a relative concept. Hence, it is assumed that the
magnitude of the disturbance can be reduced to be as small as desired. There is
no limit for the size of the disturbance depending on the size of the matter
under observation. It is always possible to find an experimental method that will
cause a negligible disturbance. Hence, size is only relative.
Size, of an object depends on the dimension of the object and the magnitude of
the disturbance, i.e. adopted experimental technique. There is nothing
fundamental/inherent about the size of the an object. Any object can be
considered to be large by observing it with an experimental method that causes a
negligible disturbance.
Absolute sense of the size of an object:
Dirac proposed the concept of absolute size. He said that there is a limit to the
fineness of our power of observation and the smallness of accompanying
disturbance - a limit which is inherent in the nature and can never be surpassed
by improved technique or increased skill on the part of the observer. There is
an inherent limit to the magnitude of the disturbance to be used during an
observation. This is the fundamental assumption/fact that provides the absolute
meaning to size.
If an object is such that the unavoidable limiting disturbance accompanying a
measurement is negligible then the object is said to be big. On the contrary, if the
limiting disturbance is non-negligible then the object is said to be small in an
absolute sense.
Classical mechanics does not provide the idea to describe objects to be small in
absolute sense.
Causality:
One of the major features of classical mechanics that appears to be very
straightforward, causality, is lost in quantum mechanics.
Causality: In classical mechanics there is a causal relation between events.
Newton's second law of motion states that force acting on a body is the cause and
Prepared by Shamik Chakraborty, Chemistry Department, BITS-Pilani. August, 2016.
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