Question

In the context of the double slit experiment and variants thereof, although it doesn't have to be this context, my question is more generic:

Is there any way to measure the position or momentum of a photon?

From what I understand, any instrument that uses the photoelectric effect will basically convert the photon to an electron. It is unclear to me what principle, if any, could be used to measure the photon (even if only partially) without also destroying it.

Is there such a way to measure a photon? I understand that any measurement will alter the state of the photon due to the uncertainty principle. However, I'm curious if by allowing some modifications to occur, it is still possible to in part measure the photon whilst still allowing it to continue down its (somewhat modified perhaps) path.

Answer 1

The Heisenberg uncertainty principle states that it is impossible to simultaneously measure the position and momentum of a photon without altering its state. Any measurement of position or momentum will introduce uncertainty and change the path of the photon.

Step-by-step explanation:

The Heisenberg uncertainty principle states that it is impossible to simultaneously measure the position and momentum of a particle, such as a photon, with exact precision. Any measurement of position or momentum will inherently change the state of the photon and introduce uncertainty. For example, measuring the position of a photon by scattering light or other photons from it will alter its momentum and lose information. Therefore, it is not possible to measure a photon's position or momentum without also affecting its path.