Difference between EM wave & a Matter wave ?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion centers around the differences between electromagnetic (EM) waves and matter waves, exploring their fundamental characteristics and behaviors.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants question the definition of "matter wave" and its comparison to other types of waves, such as light waves and mechanical waves. There is an exploration of the implications of mass on wave properties, particularly through the lens of de Broglie's hypothesis.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants providing insights into the nature of mechanical versus electromagnetic waves. Some have highlighted the differences in how these waves propagate and their fundamental characteristics, but no consensus has been reached regarding the definitions or implications of these differences.

Contextual Notes

There is a mention of the scale of waves and the context in which they exist, particularly regarding the behavior of mechanical waves as emergent phenomena. The conversation reflects a need for clarity on definitions and assumptions related to wave types.

mkbh_10
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Homework Statement



Difference between EM wave & a Matter wave ?
 
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Well, what do you mean by "a matter wave"?
Do you mean, for example, what is the difference between a light wave and a wave in a string?
 
like we can take example of a tennis ball . Its mass is huge & by de broglie its wavelength is extremely small .

So what is the basic difference b/w EM wave & matter wave ?
 
mkbh_10 said:
So what is the basic difference b/w EM wave & matter wave ?

A mechanical wave travels at a constant speed relative to its medium.

An electromagnetic wave travels at a constant speed relative to the observer.

That is the most significant difference in behavior as I see it.

Electromagnetic waves are also more fundamental. Mechanical waves are emergent phenomena when large numbers of atoms interact. Similar to heat or color, they do not exist on a sufficiently small scale.
 

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