What is the difference between quantum mechanics and quantum physics?

In summary, quantum mechanics and quantum physics are closely related, with quantum mechanics being a subset of quantum physics. Quantum physics includes both theoretical and experimental components, while quantum mechanics specifically refers to the theory behind quantizing physical quantities.
  • #1
dealrocker
1
0
I'm a grade 10 student and very much interested in physics. Just wondering the difference between quantum mechanics and quantum physics. Are they synonyms? What would you expect to study in quantum physics and quantum mechanics?

Help please..
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
"Quantum physics" is an umbrella term that refers to any physical theory based on the notion of quantizing some quantity, like energy.

Quantum physics begins with quantum mechanics, but proceeds into quantum electrodynamics (the quantum theory of electromagnetism), quantum chromodynamics (the quantum theory of nuclear forces), and quantum geometroydynamics (quantum theories of gravity, such as string theory, which are incomplete and under tremendous active study).

- Warren
 
  • #3
I think of "quantum mechanics" as being a subset of "quantum physics." Loosely speaking, quantum mechanics is the theoretical stuff, whereas quantum physics also includes the experimental and observational stuff.
 
  • #4
'Quantum mechanics. The dream stuff is made of'
 

1. What is the difference between quantum mechanics and quantum physics?

Quantum mechanics and quantum physics refer to the same branch of physics that studies the behavior of matter and energy at a subatomic level. The term "quantum mechanics" is often used to describe the mathematical and theoretical framework of this field, while "quantum physics" is a broader term that also encompasses experimental studies and applications of quantum mechanics.

2. Are quantum mechanics and classical mechanics the same thing?

No, quantum mechanics and classical mechanics are two distinct theories that describe the behavior of matter and energy. Classical mechanics is used to describe the behavior of large, macroscopic objects, while quantum mechanics is used to describe the behavior of subatomic particles.

3. How does quantum mechanics differ from Newtonian mechanics?

Quantum mechanics and Newtonian mechanics are two different approaches to understanding the behavior of matter and energy. Newtonian mechanics is based on classical physics principles, such as Newton's laws of motion, and is used to describe the behavior of macroscopic objects. Quantum mechanics, on the other hand, is based on the principles of quantum theory and is used to describe the behavior of subatomic particles.

4. What are some real-world applications of quantum mechanics?

Quantum mechanics has many real-world applications, including the development of transistors and semiconductors used in electronic devices, the creation of lasers and other advanced technologies, and its role in understanding chemical reactions and molecular structures. It is also being studied for its potential applications in quantum computing and cryptography.

5. Is quantum mechanics the most accurate theory of the physical world?

Quantum mechanics is currently the most accurate and successful theory we have for describing the behavior of matter and energy at a subatomic level. However, it is not a complete theory and does not fully explain all phenomena, such as gravity. Scientists are still working to develop a unified theory that can reconcile quantum mechanics with other theories, such as general relativity.

Similar threads

Replies
22
Views
2K
Replies
11
Views
1K
Replies
6
Views
781
  • Quantum Physics
Replies
4
Views
1K
Replies
3
Views
1K
  • Quantum Physics
Replies
6
Views
1K
  • Quantum Physics
Replies
4
Views
966
Replies
12
Views
731
  • Quantum Physics
2
Replies
41
Views
3K
Back
Top