How Is This Quantum Analogy Incorrect?

[Logan Johnston]

Homework Statement

"Sometimes the idea of the quantum is compared to the units we use for money. A dollar can be divided into smaller units, where the cent is the smallest possible unit. How is this analogy incorrect?

Homework Equations

E=nhf

The Attempt at a Solution

My thought is that quantum cannot be described without whole numbers, unlike a cent which is a fraction.

 

[phinds]

I think you have the right idea but the wrong conclusion. One, after all, IS an integer and you seem to be implying that it is not. The point is that if you take a quantum object such as an electron or a photon and say it is equivalent to a dollar, there ARE no 1 cent things inside it. So really, a correct analogy would be more like the quantum object being compared to the penny.

 

[Logan Johnston]

I think you have the right idea but the wrong conclusion. One, after all, IS an integer and you seem to be implying that it is not. The point is that if you take a quantum object such as an electron or a photon and say it is equivalent to a dollar, there ARE no 1 cent things inside it. So really, a correct analogy would be more like the quantum object being compared to the penny.

Excellent! That helped it to all click, thank you. :)

 

[andrevdh]

In the quantum world we need to think of objects being both waves and particles simultaneously.