How do classical and quantum mesh?

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    Classical Mesh Quantum
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the relationship between classical and quantum physics, specifically focusing on the de Broglie wavelength of electrons in an electric current and its implications for radio frequencies. Participants explore the calculations related to the wavelength and frequency of electrons in a wire and consider the connection to radio transmission technology.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant calculates the de Broglie wavelength of electrons in a wire, suggesting it results in a wavelength of approximately 36.3215m and a frequency of 8.2369 MHz, which they relate to radio frequencies.
  • Another participant clarifies that the waves discussed are classical electromagnetic waves rather than matter waves, explaining the distinction between individual electron velocity and drift velocity.
  • A further comment corrects the pronunciation of "de Broglie," indicating a possible misunderstanding in the initial post.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the interpretation of the de Broglie wavelength in the context of electric currents, with some focusing on classical versus quantum distinctions. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the implications of these wavelengths for radio technology.

Contextual Notes

There are assumptions regarding the velocities used in calculations, and the discussion does not resolve the implications of the drift velocity versus individual electron velocity on the de Broglie wavelength.

Cocacolacan
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I have a question for the enlightened minds.

In physics class we found our debrouille (sp?) wavelength, we found that an average human gives a ridiculously small wavelength. H/p. Now what happens when you do this to an electric current in an exposed wire? (6.626E(-34) m2 kg / s)/(9.11E(-31)*(0.0002 m/s) (the speed electrons flow in a wire, but this can be changed). But that gives you a wavelength of 36.3215m and a frequency of 8.2369 MHz. This is pretty close to the RF of remote control cars, and in between AM/FM frequencies. Would there be a way to this up through a tuner of some sort? Or is this how the technology behind radio transmissions works?
 
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de Broglie, which is roughly pronounced the way you spelled it.

The waves you are referring to are classical electromagnetic waves, not matter waves. The electrons in traveling in a current exhibit two types of velocities, one being their own, individual velocity, and the other being their drift velocity. Basically electrons scatter off of impurities and other electrons in a metal, so even though they are going rediculously fast, their average displacement ends up being very small (that's the drift velocity).

I think that if you did the calculation with their true velocity (in between scattering) then you would get a de Broglie wavelength that is much much smaller.
 
lbrits said:
de Broglie, which is roughly pronounced the way you spelled it.

Actually, I believe its pronounced "debroy".
 
True, I meant the way he spelled it, not I =)
But yes, that is the proper rendition.
 

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