What other classic quantum experiments are essential for beginners to know?

  • Thread starter WarrickF
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In summary, it is recommended for a novice to also understand or be aware of the Stern-Gerlach experiment and Einstein's explanation of the photoelectric effect, in addition to the double-slit experiment, in order to gain a better understanding of quantum mechanics. These experiments highlight the non-intuitive nature of quantum spin and the frequency-dependent nature of the photoelectric effect, supporting the idea that particles do not have a well-defined property apart from measurement.
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WarrickF
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What other classic quantum experiments exist that a novice should understand or be aware of?

I’m aware of the double-slit experiment, what other experiments should I read up on? Preferably ones that are less than a 1000 pages and were written such that mypoor brain can understand them? :)
 
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Welcome to the forums, Warrick. The Stern-Gerlach experiment is important, especially in the cascaded form described by Feynman in volume 3 of his physics textbooks. This demonstrates the non-intuitive nature of quantum spin, and supports the idea that particles don't really have a well defined spin (or by extension any other property) apart from measurement.
 
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I can't give you details, but Einstein's explanation of the photoelectric effect was based on experiments which showed the existence of the effect in any specific situation was frequency dependent rather than intensity dependent.
 

What are the other classic experiments in science?

Some other classic experiments in science include the double-slit experiment in quantum mechanics, the Pavlovian conditioning experiment in psychology, the Miller-Urey experiment on the origin of life, the Milgram experiment on obedience to authority, and the Harlow monkey experiment on social isolation.

What is the significance of the double-slit experiment?

The double-slit experiment demonstrated the wave-particle duality of light and other particles, leading to the development of the field of quantum mechanics and challenging our understanding of the fundamental nature of reality.

What were the results of the Pavlovian conditioning experiment?

The Pavlovian conditioning experiment showed that animals can be trained to associate a neutral stimulus with a reflex response, even if the two are not naturally connected. This paved the way for further research on conditioning and learning in psychology.

How did the Miller-Urey experiment contribute to our understanding of the origin of life?

The Miller-Urey experiment demonstrated that the basic building blocks of life, such as amino acids, could be formed through simple chemical reactions. This supported the theory that life on Earth may have originated from non-living materials.

What ethical concerns were raised by the Milgram experiment?

The Milgram experiment raised ethical concerns about the use of deception and the potential for psychological harm to participants. It also sparked debate about the role of authority and obedience in society.

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