I have question regarding quantum physics (localizing an electron)

In summary, quantum physics states that there are certain states, such as those of an electron in the hydrogen atom, where the position of a particle can only be described in terms of probability. The observer effect, which states that observing a system will change it in some way, is present in both classical and quantum physics. In quantum physics, particles do not have definite properties unless they are measured, and trying to fit quantum mechanics into a classical frame can lead to false conclusions. The concept of maximally entangled pairs of photons illustrates this idea, as the source emits correlations rather than local properties for observers to measure.
  • #1
sadaronjiggasha
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As QP says it is uncertain that where you found electron.
As QP says it is uncertain that where you found electron. But its not the same phenomena that one fan blade running so fast that you cant see where the blade is. You can only see the blade on a particular position if you use high resulation camera and its position depend on when you take the picture. I know very novice question, still want to know. Thank you.
 
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  • #2
sadaronjiggasha said:
As QP says it is uncertain that where you found electron.
This is not what quantum physics says. It says that there are states, such as stable states of an electron in the hydrogen atom, where you can only say the probability of finding the electron at a given position. When the position of a particle is measured, it will always be localized (within measurement error).

When first encountering quantum mechanics, one is tempted to try and fit things into a classical frame, as it is what our classical brains can best do. Try and resist that urge and take the quantum world to be what it is. I think that you will find this most satisfying in the long run (without having to unlearn incorrect things) even if means that you can't really make sense of quantum mechanics at first.
 
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Thank you for your answer. Yes it is realy hard to think differenly when your brain all ready occupied with general physics. I will try to think differently.
 
  • #4
there is also the fact that in classical physics particles have definite properties even if you do not measure them. it is not the case in QM. supposing it would lead to false conclusions.
 
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  • #5
Heidi said:
there is also the fact that in classical physics particles have definite properties even if you do not measure them. it is not the case in QM. supposing it would lead to false conclusions.
Is it called observer effect?
 
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  • #6
sadaronjiggasha said:
Is it called observer effect?
No. The observer effect, that observing a system will change it in some way, is present in classical physics as well as quantum (although classically it can be made arbitrarily small).
 
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An example can be given with the maximally entangled pairs of photon (the famous Bob and Alice measurement)
A source emits photonic systems with these properties with these properties (no other ones)
the number occupation is 2
allways the same energy
a null global momentum
a null global angular momentum
You can see that you have no property assigned to what Bob or Alice could measure.
there is no local existing things that they can measure but they can verify the nullity of the sum of
two same measurements . the source emits correlations not local properties.
 
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1. What is the concept of localizing an electron in quantum physics?

In quantum physics, the concept of localizing an electron refers to the ability to determine the precise position of an electron in an atom or molecule. This is important because it helps us understand the behavior of electrons and their interactions with other particles.

2. How is the position of an electron determined in quantum physics?

The position of an electron in quantum physics is determined through a mathematical concept called wave function. This function describes the probability of finding the electron at a particular location in space. By measuring this probability, we can determine the most likely position of the electron.

3. Can an electron be in two places at once in quantum physics?

Yes, according to the principles of quantum mechanics, an electron can exist in multiple places at the same time. This is known as the concept of superposition, where the electron is described as a wave rather than a single particle. However, upon measurement, the electron's position collapses to a single point.

4. What is the uncertainty principle in quantum physics?

The uncertainty principle in quantum physics states that it is impossible to know both the position and momentum of a particle (such as an electron) with absolute precision. This is due to the wave-like nature of particles and the limitations of measurement tools.

5. How does localizing an electron impact technology and everyday life?

The ability to localize electrons in quantum physics has led to advancements in technology such as transistors, lasers, and MRI machines. These technologies rely on the precise control and manipulation of electrons. In everyday life, quantum physics plays a role in the functioning of electronic devices, from smartphones to computers, and in the development of new materials and medicines.

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