Principles of Quantum Mechanics
Principles of Quantum Mechanics
Quantum mechanics is a fundamental theory in physics describing physical phenomena at the scale of atoms and subatomic particles.
Wave-Particle Duality
The dual aspect of matter and energy, behaving both as waves and particles.
Wave Nature
Describes how particles exhibit wave characteristics like interference and diffraction.
Particle Nature
Particles such as electrons also show attributes like localized impacts on detection screens.
Complementarity
The wave and particle aspects are complementary, with either manifesting based on the type of measurement performed.
Uncertainty Principle
The indeterminacy inherent in the properties of particles.
Position-Momentum Uncertainty
More precise measurement of a particle's position leads to greater uncertainty in its momentum, and vice versa.
Time-Energy Uncertainty
There is a limitation on the precision of measuring time and energy simultaneously.
Measurement Impact
Attempting to measure one property of a particle can disturb another, influencing the outcome.
Quantum Superposition
A particle can exist in all possible states simultaneously until a measurement collapses it to a single state.
Probability Amplitudes
The mathematical probability that a particle will be in a particular state when measured.
State Vector
A quantum system's state is described by a vector representing all possible states.
Collapse of the Wave Function
Measurement causes a transition from superposition to a definite state.
Quantum Entanglement
Two or more particles become linked and instantaneously affect each other's properties, regardless of distance.
Nonlocality
Entangled particles maintain a connection even when separated by vast distances.
EPR Paradox
Discussion on the seemingly instantaneous communication between entangled particles, challenging locality principle.
Quantum Information
Entanglement's implications for quantum communication and computing through shared quantum states.
Quantum Tunneling
Particles can pass through potential barriers they classically shouldn't surmount due to their energy levels.
Barrier Penetration
Particles can 'tunnel' through an energy barrier rather than climbing over it.
Tunneling Probability
Depends on the width and height of the barrier, and the particle's wave function.
Applications
Essential for understanding phenomena like nuclear fusion and tunnel diode operation.