Two slit experiment question

In summary, the presence of "which path information" in the two slit experiment results in the absence of a wave interference pattern, as would be seen with both slits being used. However, when a single slit is used, there is a visible diffraction pattern. The degree of diffraction/interference is inversely proportional to the degree of precision/probability of the particle or photon's location. It is not a binary concept, as the use of a detector to force a one slit path in the two slit experiment can still result in some degree of diffraction/interference.
  • #1
rp1220
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In the two slit experiment when which path information is present there is no wave interference pattern such as would be seen with both slits being used. When a single slit is used there is a visible diffraction pattern. Is such a pattern seen when a detector forces a one slit path in the two slit experiment ?
 
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  • #2
With "which path information", you'll still see single-slit interference patterns if the measurement does not measure additional information about the precise position of the particle in the slit.
 
  • #3
rp1220 said:
In the two slit experiment when which path information is present there is no wave interference pattern such as would be seen with both slits being used. When a single slit is used there is a visible diffraction pattern. Is such a pattern seen when a detector forces a one slit path in the two slit experiment ?

to add to what mfb has already said...

the degree of diffraction/interference is inversely proportional to the degree of precision/probability (of particle/photon location).

its not a yes or no, 1 or 0, interference or no-interference, which-way or no-which-way thing
 
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1. What is the Two Slit Experiment?

The Two Slit Experiment is a classic experiment in quantum physics that demonstrates the wave-particle duality of light. It involves shining a light source through two parallel slits and observing the resulting interference pattern on a screen.

2. How does the Two Slit Experiment work?

The experiment works by shining a beam of light, usually a laser, through two parallel slits. The light then passes through the slits and creates an interference pattern on a screen placed behind the slits. This pattern is created due to the wave-like behavior of light.

3. What is the significance of the Two Slit Experiment?

The Two Slit Experiment is significant because it provides evidence for the wave-particle duality of light. This means that light can behave as both a wave and a particle, depending on how it is observed. This concept has important implications for our understanding of the nature of light and matter.

4. Can the Two Slit Experiment be performed with other particles besides light?

Yes, the Two Slit Experiment has been performed with other particles, such as electrons, protons, and even large molecules. This demonstrates that the wave-particle duality is not limited to just light, but is a fundamental property of all particles.

5. What are the practical applications of the Two Slit Experiment?

The Two Slit Experiment has practical applications in fields such as quantum computing and cryptography. It also helps to deepen our understanding of quantum mechanics and the behavior of particles at the subatomic level.

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