Quantum Tunneling: What Is It? Any Views?

In summary, quantum tunneling is a phenomenon in which particles can pass through barriers due to the probabilistic nature of quantum mechanics. This theory suggests that particles can move past barriers by shifting their probability peak to a point on the other side, rather than physically passing through the barrier. However, there is still debate and uncertainty surrounding the exact mechanism behind quantum tunneling and its interpretation.
  • #1
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some say that quantum tunneling would act sortof like a hyperspace/warp thing.
any views on what it actually is?
 
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  • #2
Hi,

I think it is possible that quantum tunneling arises from some type of ultra=small scale magnetic (or possilbe strong or weak force) warp or wormhole.

juju
 
  • #3
In "pure" states (no mixed), things are determined by probability functions. The propbability peaks at one position, but tails off and has a non-zero value at points away from the peak point. Even if there is a barrier, the probability value on the other side can be greater than zero. And it is possible to get the probability peak to move to that place, thus taking the particle "past" the barrier. This is the basic idea of quantum tunneling. It's a very basic quantum idea, and not due to any conspriracy of other forces.
 
  • #4
Hi,

Probability doesn't cause anything. It is just the description of the distribution of outcomes over a large number of instances.

I don't argue with the math and methods of QM. They work beautifully. What I argue with is the interpretation of the formalism and the idea of probability.

There must be a real world mapping for the formalism before it is completely understood. Most of the explanations today are mystical and metaphysical. A concrete mapping is necessary or the meaning of QM recedes into the mists.

juju
 

1. What is quantum tunneling?

Quantum tunneling is a phenomenon in quantum mechanics where a particle can pass through a potential energy barrier even if it does not have enough energy to overcome the barrier.

2. How does quantum tunneling occur?

In quantum mechanics, particles do not follow a fixed trajectory, but instead exist as a wave of probabilities. When a particle encounters a potential energy barrier, there is a small chance that it can "tunnel" through the barrier and appear on the other side.

3. What are some real-world applications of quantum tunneling?

Quantum tunneling is a crucial concept in many fields, including electronics, chemistry, and nuclear physics. It is used in devices such as tunneling diodes and scanning tunneling microscopes, and is also involved in radioactive decay and nuclear fusion reactions.

4. Can quantum tunneling be observed in everyday life?

No, quantum tunneling is a very small-scale phenomenon that is only observable at the atomic and subatomic level. It is not something that can be observed in our daily lives.

5. What are some current theories and explanations for quantum tunneling?

There are several interpretations and theories that attempt to explain quantum tunneling, including the Copenhagen interpretation, the many-worlds interpretation, and the transactional interpretation. However, the exact mechanism behind quantum tunneling is still a topic of debate and further research.

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