The Uncertainty Principle Determines the Nonlocality of Quantum Mechanics

Abstract

Quantum Connection A system that is quantum mechanically entangled with another distant system can be predicted by measuring the distant system. This form of “action-at-a-distance,” or nonlocality, seemingly contradicts Heisenberg's uncertainty principle, which is one of the fundamental aspects of quantum mechanics. Oppenheim and Wehner (p. 1072 ) show that the degree of nonlocality in quantum mechanics is actually determined by the uncertainty principle. The unexpected connection between nonlocality and uncertainty holds true for other physical theories besides quantum mechanics.