Feynman experiment with bullets

In summary, the conversation discusses an experiment conducted by Feynman with bullets in chapter 37-2 of his book. The person asking the question notes that the illustration in the book looks different from the video of Feynman's live lecture. Feynman explains that the difference is due to the first hole being close to the bullet source and that the lack of an interference pattern is the main point of the experiment. It is uncertain if the diagram in the book or the lecture is more accurate.
  • #1
Z3kr0m
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Hello, I have a question. In Feynman lectures vol. I, in chapter 37-2, Feynman has an experiment with bullets.
wwiC7XV.png

*Copyright http://www.feynmanlectures.caltech.edu/III_01.html
But the curve for ##P_{12}## looks in the picture is different from his live recorded lectures.
7FQAmlI.png

*YouTube -

Is the difference because of the first hole (in video) right after bullet source? If it's that close to source it should shoot bullets to all sides like in the book, or not? Thanks for answers.
 

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  • #2
It looks different because it is just a sloppy illustration. The point is that there is no interference pattern. We don't really care if there is one maximum in the middle or two maxima on either side. In either case, it is just an example of no interference. I can't say if the diagram in the book is sloppy, or if the diagram in the lecture is sloppy, because it is just a hypothetical situation with no hard numbers.
 
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1. How did Richard Feynman come up with the idea for his experiment with bullets?

Richard Feynman was inspired to conduct his famous experiment with bullets after observing a similar demonstration by his colleague, John Wheeler. Wheeler used a device called the "two-slit experiment" to show the dual nature of light, and Feynman extended this concept to particles such as bullets.

2. What was the purpose of Feynman's experiment with bullets?

The purpose of Feynman's experiment was to demonstrate the principle of wave-particle duality, which states that particles can behave like waves and exhibit interference patterns. This concept is a fundamental aspect of quantum mechanics and has important implications in understanding the behavior of matter and energy at the atomic level.

3. How did Feynman's experiment with bullets work?

Feynman's experiment involved shooting individual electrons at a barrier with two slits. The electrons would either go through one slit or the other, creating a pattern on a screen behind the barrier. However, when the electrons were shot one at a time, they still produced an interference pattern, similar to what is seen with waves. This demonstrated the wave-like behavior of particles.

4. What were the results of Feynman's experiment with bullets?

The results of Feynman's experiment confirmed the principle of wave-particle duality and showed that particles such as electrons exhibit both particle-like and wave-like behavior. It also provided evidence for the probabilistic nature of quantum mechanics, as each individual electron had an unpredictable path but still contributed to the overall interference pattern.

5. What impact did Feynman's experiment with bullets have on the field of physics?

Feynman's experiment with bullets was a significant contribution to the field of physics, as it provided further evidence for the wave-particle duality and helped to solidify the foundations of quantum mechanics. It also inspired further research and exploration into the behavior of matter and energy at the atomic level, leading to many important discoveries and advancements in the field.

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