The following text is about physics.
The many-worlds interpretation of quantum mechanics proposes that all possible outcomes of quantum measurements actually occur—in different, branching universes. When a particle's position is measured, the universe splits: in one branch, observers see outcome A; in another, they see outcome B. Both outcomes are equally real, but observers in each branch only experience their outcome. This eliminates the puzzling "collapse" of the wave function but at the cost of multiplying universes endlessly. Critics question whether such extravagance is justified; defenders argue that other interpretations face worse problems.
What trade-off does the many-worlds interpretation involve according to the text?
It eliminates all quantum mysteries without any theoretical costs
It removes the collapse problem but multiplies universes
It simplifies physics by reducing the number of possible outcomes
It rejects the reality of quantum measurement entirely
Correct Answer: B
Choice B is the correct answer. The interpretation "eliminates the puzzling 'collapse' of the wave function but at the cost of multiplying universes endlessly."
- Evidence: Collapse eliminated; universes multiplied.
- Reasoning: Solving one problem creates another consideration.
- Conclusion: Trade-off between collapse problem and ontological extravagance.
Choice A is incorrect because "cost" is acknowledged. Choice C is incorrect because it multiplies, not reduces, universes. Choice D is incorrect because all outcomes are real, not rejected.