Density Matrixes in Quantum Mechanics

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In quantum mechanics, for an entangled subsystem, you need to talk the language of density matrices. In classical mechanics, it's really just because we don't know all the details. For instance, a kinetic and potential energy experiment is the same if done today or tomorrow at one location or the other. That gives us conservation of energy and of momentum. Can you explain the reasoning that makes that necessary? Short answer is no, I cannot explain it here in the AMA, it's too complicated for that.

Welcome to the July 2023 Ask Me Anything episode of Mindscape! These monthly excursions are funded by Patreon supporters (who are also the ones asking the questions). We take questions asked by Patreons, whittle them down to a more manageable number -- based primarily on whether I have anything interesting to say about them, not whether the questions themselves are good -- and sometimes group them together if they are about a similar topic.

We're experimenting with a new benefit for Patreon supporters: short video (or audio-only) reflections by me on the podcast that just happened. If you've been wondering whether to join up, this could be the time.

Blog post with questions and transcript: https://www.preposterousuniverse.com/podcast/2023/07/03/ama-july-2023/

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