We know that if we send one electron through 2 slit, the wave function

In summary, when one electron is sent through two slits, the resulting wave function on the curtain (detector) shows a maximum in the center, indicating that the electron can be found anywhere on the curtain with a certain probability. However, it is unclear whether the electron is observed throughout the entire wave shape or only at one point. If multiple electrons are sent through the apparatus, they will arrive at different points and create an interference pattern. This information is supported by a study conducted by Hitachi.
  • #1
hokhani
483
8
we know that if we send one electron through 2 slit, the wave function on the curtain(detector) is a wave that it's maximum is in the center. and we can find electron anywhere on the curtain according to it's probability. but i want to know whether we observe the electron on all part of the curtain(such as it's wave shape) or we observe only in one point?
for example
if we send an electron(just one electron) through the 2slit, then take a point detector(very small detector in a point on the curtain) that makes sound after the electron collision, would we certainly hear any sounds(as a result of attending the electron everywhere) or not(it would just collide with one point that may not be on your point detector)?
 
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  • #2
Each electron arrives at one point. When you send more than one electron through the apparatus, they arrive at different points, and eventually the interference pattern "builds up."

http://www.hitachi.com/rd/research/em/doubleslit.html
 

Related to We know that if we send one electron through 2 slit, the wave function

1. What is the "wave function" in regards to electron behavior?

The wave function is a mathematical representation of the probability of finding an electron in a given location. It describes the wave-like nature of electrons and is used to predict their behavior in certain experiments, such as the double-slit experiment.

2. How does the double-slit experiment work?

In the double-slit experiment, a beam of electrons is sent through two parallel slits and observed on a screen behind the slits. The resulting pattern on the screen shows interference, indicating that the electrons behave as waves and interfere with each other.

3. Why is the double-slit experiment important for understanding the behavior of electrons?

The double-slit experiment is important because it demonstrates the wave-particle duality of electrons. This means that electrons can behave as both particles and waves, and their behavior is described by the wave function.

4. What does it mean if the electron's wave function collapses?

When an electron's wave function collapses, it means that the electron's position or momentum has been measured, and its behavior is now determined. This is known as the "observer effect," and it is a fundamental principle of quantum mechanics.

5. How does the wave function change when an electron is observed?

When an electron is observed, the wave function collapses, and it becomes localized at a specific point in space. This means that the probability of finding the electron at that point becomes 100%, and the wave function can no longer describe the electron's behavior as a wave.

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