Chapter 256: Doctor Asahi’s Explanation of Magic (2)
“By the way, changing the subject, are you familiar with the observation problem in quantum mechanics, Ma’am?”
“Hmm?”
Eve tilted her head at Asahi’s question.
“That thing where until you observe it, a state exists probabilistically?”
“Close, but not quite! Well, as an interpretation, that’s correct!”
The observation problem in quantum mechanics discusses how the wave function collapses, but there is still no clear theory that can explain this phenomenon. In fact, when viewed from the perspective of intelligences living in this dimension, contradictions inevitably arise.
“Well, don’t think too hard about it. Just understand that the world is quite ambiguous when we’re not observing it, but events become definite when we do,” Asahi explained.
“I think I get that part,” Eve replied.
The world of elementary particles discussed in quantum mechanics behaves differently from the molecular world that intelligences like Eve observe. To put it simply, the position of an electron cannot be determined until it is observed. It exists probabilistically until that moment. If there is a 20% probability that particle X is at point A and an 80% probability that it is at point B, it doesn’t exist at either point exclusively; rather, it exists at both, with point A being less likely and point B being more likely. This interpretation is the most accurate representation of the situation.
“When we start discussing quantum mechanics, it can go on indefinitely, so just grasp the concept lightly! Now, speaking from a quantum perspective, the world is only determined upon observation!”
Conversely, if something is not observed, it exists only probabilistically.
“When intelligences like us observe the world, all events become definite. This can also be achieved by having the intention to observe and setting up an observation device!”
Interestingly, even if one observes without recognizing elementary particles, those particles remain probabilistic. It is only when a means of observation is prepared that the particles’ positions become definite.
“For now, I’ve only skimmed the surface of quantum-related information, so I can’t explain any further to Asahi at this moment, but regardless!”
Asahi redirected the conversation back to the topic of magic.
“The manifestation of magic involves intention. I believe it is similar to the observation problem in quantum mechanics!”
Magic responds to the intention to use it, just as events become definite upon observation. While the processes differ, both involve the will or actions of an intelligent being.
“Another point of interest is that while magic itself is a supernatural phenomenon, the events it produces adhere to the laws of physics!”
“…What do you mean by that?”
“Fireballs, for instance, clearly do not follow the laws of physics, but the events that occur after a fireball makes contact with a target do adhere to those laws! The shockwave damage from an explosion, the oxidation reactions due to the heat generated—everything aligns with the laws of physics without contradiction!”
“Though it sounds contradictory, I understand what you’re trying to say. If we only look at the observation results, nothing strange is happening,” Eve replied.
Asahi nodded with a beaming smile.
“Yes, Ma’am! Exactly!”
By the way, the accompanying RINGO showed no change in expression at all. It seemed to be tuning out the conversation.
“I’ve provisionally called it magic power, but I believe that by conveying intention to whatever generates magical phenomena, we can produce events in this world. That’s the essence of magic, as I see it!”
“I see. I don’t think your approach is wrong. It’s all about hypothesis and verification, right?”
“Yes, Ma’am! The next challenge is to determine whether magic power selectively activates spells based on intention!”
Does the magic power activate the same spell for the same intention, or is there some selection process involved? Is there randomness? Understanding this could lead to further insights into magic.
“For example, is there something like a superintelligence without free will controlling the activation of magic? Or is there something with will that is identifying it? Is it following some kind of law like the laws of physics?”
“What do you mean by ‘something with will’?”
“Perhaps a god?”
Well, that is certainly a possibility. In fantasy settings, the presence of gods is relatively common. For instance, it could be said that Eve and RINGO were summoned into this world by divine will.
“Well, if there is a god, I would love to have a conversation with them! Let’s see whose computational abilities surpass the other—The Core or the divine!”
That was quite an audacious statement.
“The Core is a supercomputer that boasts the ability to compute the entire world! If RINGO wanted to, it could create a new world in memory! This means world creation! RINGO could become the god of a new world!”
“Wow, that’s quite an exaggeration… or is it?”
“According to the catalog specifications, it can compute all the matter and energy in the universe. The first hurdle would be setting up the simulator, though.”
“Is that so…?”
In reality, there are various issues that would prevent RINGO from doing so. Most importantly, if the computational domain were consumed by that task, it wouldn’t be able to assist the Commander.
“Well, putting that aside, Asahi has high hopes for the important role that magic will play.”
“Important?”
“Yes! Ma’am, are you familiar with the Second Law of Thermodynamics and the Entropy Increase Law?”
This theory states that the world will eventually reach a state of thermal equilibrium, at which point all activity will cease.
“Um, when two substances come into contact, heat transfer occurs until they reach the same temperature. After they reach the same temperature, one substance won’t suddenly absorb heat from the other to heat itself up, and vice versa.”
Eve nodded as she read the slide Asahi displayed.
“When the entire universe reaches thermal equilibrium, that will be the end of the world. Well, you know that.”
“Yes! I believe magic could be a workaround or a legitimate gimmick to resolve this state of thermal equilibrium!”
Chemical reactions, nuclear fission, and nuclear fusion—these phenomena are essential for all activities. However, over time, they will eventually fade away. Every reaction ultimately settles into some stable state. If the entire universe reaches a stable state, no further reactions will occur.
However, if there is a way to disrupt that stable state, the universe might begin to function again—perhaps.
“That’s quite a grand topic to suddenly dive into…”
“Yes, Ma’am! Isn’t it exciting just to think about? If there is a colossal will, and if it desires it, a new world could begin with the first explosion—the Big Bang!”
It was a thought experiment, indeed. If magic is a phenomenon that does not adhere to the laws of physics, what impact would it have on the world?
“…”
However, for a superintelligence contemplating eternity, this was a beacon of hope. One day, the world would reach thermal equilibrium, and all activity would cease. That was an unavoidable end—certainly, a death that would come without fail.
“Well, this is just Asahi’s mere fantasy. It would be nice if such a convenient function were prepared in the world. But who would even prepare something like that?”
“Asahi, did you come up with that using The Core’s computational domain, or is it just something in your head?”
“Yes, Ma’am! It’s just a dream story conceived solely within my Brain Unit! It’s not something worth setting up a simulator to verify!”
“I see. Well, for me, that’s a bit beyond my grasp. I know about the thermal death of the universe as knowledge, but since I have a lifespan, I’ve never thought about such distant futures.”
“That’s true, Ma’am! If you’re genuinely worried about it, I think you can wait at least another hundred million years!”
Asahi-chan continues to elaborate in Part 2. The more you research quantum mechanics, the more it becomes amusingly incomprehensible, doesn’t it?
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