Math of Electron Double Slit Experiment

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on deriving the wave patterns observed in the Electron Double Slit Experiment using quantum mechanics. Participants highlight the relevance of classical electrodynamics and optics, particularly referencing the Helmholtz equation and Green's function in nonrelativistic quantum theory. Additionally, the path integral formulation, as detailed in the book by Richard Feynman and Albert Hibbs, is suggested as an intuitive approach to understanding the phenomenon. A link to a relevant paper on arXiv is also provided for further exploration.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of quantum mechanics principles, specifically wave-particle duality
  • Familiarity with classical electrodynamics and optics
  • Knowledge of the Helmholtz equation and Green's functions
  • Basic comprehension of path integral formulation in quantum theory
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the Helmholtz equation and its applications in quantum mechanics
  • Explore the path integral formulation as presented in "Quantum Mechanics and Path Integrals" by Feynman and Hibbs
  • Review the arXiv paper on quantum mechanics linked in the discussion for deeper insights
  • Investigate the implications of wave-particle duality in modern physics
USEFUL FOR

Students and researchers in physics, particularly those focused on quantum mechanics, wave-particle duality, and the foundational principles of the Electron Double Slit Experiment.

Ghost Quartz
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I'm looking for a good derivation of the "wave" patterns in this experiment. I suppose that if wave-particle duality is an obsolete idea, there must be a derivation from quantum mechanics that gets close results.
Thanks in advance
 
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Physics news on Phys.org
There was a thread recently called "Is wave-matter duality a proven theory" which involved a discussion about this, with some links.

That might be interesting.
 
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How familiar are you with the description of diffraction in classical electrodynamics/optics? In nonrelativistic QT it's almost the same theory, based on the Helmholtz equation and the corresponding Green's function given the boundary conditions due to the slits.

An alternative also pretty intuitive way is the use of the path integral. This is nicely worked out in the book by Feynman and Hibbs.
 
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the link posted by DrChinese is what I was looking for. Thank you, everyone!
 
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