- #1
Aziza
- 190
- 1
what does it mean that the energy of a free particle is not quantized, but continuous just like in classical physics? I thought energy is always quantized??
The energy of a free particle that is not quantized is continuous, meaning it can take on any value. This is in contrast to quantized energy, where the energy levels are discrete and can only take on certain values.
The energy of a free particle is not quantized because it is not confined to a specific energy level or state. It can move freely and its energy is determined by its momentum and mass according to the classical equation E = p^2/2m.
Particles with non-quantized energy behave differently compared to particles with quantized energy. They do not show discrete energy levels and can take on any value, making them more similar to classical particles. This can have implications in certain physical phenomena, such as in the study of wave-particle duality.
Yes, it is possible for particles to have both quantized and non-quantized energy. For example, in quantum mechanics, a particle can have quantized energy levels in a bound state, but when it becomes free, its energy becomes non-quantized.
According to the classical equation E = p^2/2m, the energy of a free particle is directly proportional to its momentum. This means that as the momentum of a free particle increases, its energy also increases. However, in quantum mechanics, the relationship between energy and momentum is more complex and is described by the Schrödinger equation.