Is any energy required to change the phase of a wave-function?

In summary, changing the phase of a wave-function involves altering the probability amplitude and quantum state of a particle. This can result in changes to the interference pattern, but does not require any energy exchange. An example of this process is representing a wavefunction with a phasor and calculating the difference in phase for different paths. This information is explained further in the Feynman lectures.
  • #1
San K
911
1
Changing the phase of a wave-function

wave-function is a probability amplitude in quantum mechanics describing the quantum state of a particle and how it behaves.

when we change the phase of a wave-function what are we changing? are we changing the probability distribution wrt time-space?

the change in phase (between the wave-functions traveling different paths) causes the changes in interference pattern

is any energy required to change the phase of a wave-function?
or
when a wave-function changes phase is there an exchange of energy (with the instrument that caused the phase change)?
 
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  • #2
Hello again - can you come up with an example of a process changing the phase of a wavefunction? Once done, you will have the answer to your problem.

Wavefunctions can be represented by a phasor in a manner similar to classical waves. The phase of the wave at a point in space and time is the angle the phasor makes to the real-number axis.
the change in phase (between the wave-functions traveling different paths) causes the changes in interference pattern
This is not correct - it is the difference in phase between phasors calculated for different paths that tells us the amount of interference. This is explained in the Feynman lectures I have directed to you to in your other thread.
 

1. What is a wave-function?

A wave-function is a mathematical representation of a quantum system's state. It describes the probability of finding a particle in a certain position or state.

2. What does it mean to change the phase of a wave-function?

Changing the phase of a wave-function means altering the relative position of the peaks and troughs of the wave. This can be done by applying a mathematical operator to the wave-function.

3. Is any energy required to change the phase of a wave-function?

Yes, energy is required to change the phase of a wave-function. This is because changing the phase requires manipulating the quantum state of the system, which requires energy.

4. How does changing the phase of a wave-function affect the system?

Changing the phase of a wave-function can affect the probability of finding a particle in a certain state or position. It can also change the behavior of the system, such as the interference patterns produced by the wave-function.

5. Can the phase of a wave-function be changed without energy?

No, the phase of a wave-function cannot be changed without energy. The act of manipulating the quantum state requires energy, and therefore any changes to the phase will also require energy.

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