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nonequilibrium
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So the Aharonov-Bohm effect relies on a magnetic field that is only non-zero within a given range. However, is it possible, even in principle (i.e. theoretically), to have such a magnetic field?
The effect does not require zero field strength anywhere - the interesting thing is just that it works with zero field strength, too.
Well, "theoretically" you could have an infinitely long ideal solenoid (of infinitesimal diameter)...mr. vodka said:[...], I emphasized as often as I could "even theoretically".
mr. vodka said:So the Aharonov-Bohm effect relies on a magnetic field that is only non-zero within a given range. However, is it possible, even in principle (i.e. theoretically), to have such a magnetic field?
The Aharonov-Bohm effect is a quantum mechanical phenomenon where a charged particle is influenced by an electromagnetic field even when the particle is outside the field's region. This effect was first proposed by Yakir Aharonov and David Bohm in 1959.
The Aharonov-Bohm effect is realizable through a thought experiment known as the Aharonov-Bohm effect setup. This setup involves a solenoid with a magnetic field, but no electric field, and a charged particle passing through the region where the magnetic field is present. The particle's trajectory is affected by the magnetic field, even though there is no direct interaction between the particle and the field.
The Aharonov-Bohm effect is significant because it challenges our understanding of classical electromagnetism. It shows that the electric and magnetic fields are not the only factors that can influence a charged particle, and that even in the absence of a direct interaction, a particle can still be affected by a field.
While the Aharonov-Bohm effect is mainly a theoretical concept, it has been observed in experiments involving electrons and atomic systems. However, there are currently no known practical applications of the Aharonov-Bohm effect.
The Aharonov-Bohm effect is a phenomenon that can only be explained using the principles of quantum mechanics. It highlights the role of quantum phase in determining the behavior of particles and challenges the classical understanding of forces and interactions between particles.