Could multiple dimensions explain quantum leap?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept of quantum leaps in electrons and the potential implications of multiple dimensions on energy quantization. Participants explore whether energy might not be quantized when considering dimensions beyond the three observable ones, and how this could relate to the phenomenon of electrons seemingly jumping between orbitals without traversing the space in between.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant proposes that energy is quantized only in the three observable dimensions and suggests that in higher dimensions, energy might not be quantized, potentially explaining quantum leaps.
  • Another participant emphasizes that understanding quantum leaps requires the framework of Quantum Field Theory, indicating that the topic is complex and not typically covered in beginner discussions.
  • A participant expresses a desire to clarify the concept of quantum leaps and questions whether energy is always quantized, seeking further explanation.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

There is no consensus on the proposed idea of multiple dimensions affecting energy quantization. Participants express differing views on the appropriateness of personal speculation and the need to adhere to established physical theories.

Contextual Notes

Participants acknowledge the limitations of the initial proposal, noting a lack of mathematical evidence and the complexity of the subject matter, which may not be suitable for beginners.

psuedoben
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please point out the flaws/add to my reasoning here:

it is known that energy is quantized, but could that be for just the 3 dimensions we're able to experience? Is it illogically to propose that energy might not be quantized when looking at all of the dimensions together? this could explain quantum leaping, to us it appears as though electrons jump from one orbital to another without spending any time between the two because it cannot absorb/emit energy of those levels. What if electrons can absorb/emit energy of those levels but when they do they exist in other dimensions (beyond the three we can observe) and so it only seems to us as though the electron jumps orbitals skipping the space between, but in reality it is traveling through that space but only through another dimension?

(I understand that this untested "theory" has little to no mathematical evidence to support it, but keep in mind I'm only a freshman undergraduate so I've spent very little time studying these subjects)
 
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bhobba said:
It isn't eg the energy of a free particle
We already know why - but does require the full machinery of Quantum Field Theory to explain which is why its not usually discussed in beginner texts and popularisations since it is advanced.
Personal speculation, especially that of the handwavey type, is off topic by forum rules.

Happy to discuss the issues you raised above, but it must be in the framework of current accepted physical theories.

Thanks
Bill
good point! I'm new to this so ill remove this thread and stick to the rules next time
 
psuedoben said:
good point! I'm new to this so ill remove this thread and stick to the rules next time

If you want to start a new thread that's fine, but, providing we stay away from personal speculation we can continue here if you like.

Thanks
Bill
 
bhobba said:
If you want to start a new thread that's fine, but, providing we stay away from personal speculation we can continue here if you like.

Thanks
Bill
ok, i would like to continue then!
-what do you mean the energy of a free particle? are you saying that energy isn't always quantized or am i misinterpreting?
-also, if you feel capable could you try to explain our understanding of quantum leap? (keep in mind you're talking to someone who has only taken college level general chemistry)
 

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