Double slit experiment - quick question

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the double slit experiment, specifically the idea of introducing a barrier between the two slits that extends towards the detector. Participants explore the implications of such a modification on the interference pattern observed in the experiment.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant proposes that a barrier could provide insights into whether a photon or electron is interfering with itself or passing through both slits simultaneously.
  • Another participant argues that the presence of a barrier would prevent the formation of an interference pattern, suggesting that interference cannot occur without free space between the slits.
  • A third participant emphasizes that introducing a barrier fundamentally alters the nature of the experiment, as interference relies on wave propagation in free space.
  • A later reply suggests looking into the "quantum eraser" concept for further exploration of modified double-slit experiments.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the effects of a barrier in the double slit experiment, indicating that there is no consensus on whether an interference pattern would still be observable.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not resolve the implications of introducing a barrier, and assumptions regarding the nature of interference and wave propagation remain unexamined.

netjim66
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Has anyone heard of anyone trying to conduct the double slit experiment with a barrier between the two slits that goes all the way or near the detector?
If it could be done maybe it would be interesting to see the result.
It may answer the question if the photon (or electron) is interferring with itself (or is it going through both slits at the same time).

The barrier may prevent interferrence. If you still see the interferrence pattern, then maybe you could derive that the particle is going through both slit.
 
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I don't think you'd see an interference pattern in that case. The barrier between the slits would prevent the interference occurring.
 
Introducing a barrier changes the experiment entirely. The whole point of interference experiments is that the waves propagate in *free space*. You no longer have free space.
 
Hey Net, if you are really interested in bizarre consequences of a modified double-slit experiment, search Google for info on "quantum eraser"
 

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