Microscopic and macroscopic physics

In summary, quantum mechanics explains phenomena on a microscopic scale where measurements are not definite and probability plays a role. On the other hand, classical physics explains macroscopic phenomena where measurements are definitive and probability does not play a role. The difference between the two can be attributed to the signal-to-noise ratio, where in a microscope event the ratio is low and in a macroscopic event all random processes add up to result in a high signal-to-noise ratio, reducing the probability of unusual events like quantum tunneling from occurring. However, this does not fully explain the difference between microscopic and macroscopic physics, as there are still quantum phenomena that can produce significant signals, such as in NMR.
  • #1
iVenky
212
12
Quantum Mechanics seems to explain phenomenon happening on a microscopic scale, where measurements aren't definite and probability plays a role.
Classical physics explain macroscopic phenomenon where measurements are definitive without probability of that event happening.

Is it happening just because of the fact that the Signal to Noise ratio is low in a microscope event and in a macroscopic event all random processes add up to together to result in a high Signal to Noise ratio thereby reducing the probability of these weird events (like quantum tunneling for example) from happening in a macroscopic world?
For example:

If X(t) is a random process that's being measured then error percentage σx/X
if we have a new random process Y(t)=X1(t)+X2(t)...+Xn(t) and if they aren't correlated, then error percentage σy/Y=σx/(√nX), meaning the probability of that event from happening drops by √n times

Is that the reason why we see a difference in physics between microscopic and macroscopic objects?
 
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  • #2
I don't quite understand what you are proposing, but the answer seems to be "no". NMR, for example, is purely quantum and can have an enormous signal to noise.
 
  • #3
Sorry, if it's not clear. I was just thinking out loud based on what I read about quantum tunneling. Since there is a probability that an electron can break a potential barrier (let's call this a random process X) , I was thinking the reason why we aren't seeing such events in macroscopic scale because if you combine several such random processes the sigma or variance should become lower with respect to the macroscopic scale.
 

What is the difference between microscopic and macroscopic physics?

Microscopic physics deals with the study of matter and energy on a small scale, such as atoms and subatomic particles. Macroscopic physics, on the other hand, focuses on the behavior of matter and energy on a larger scale, such as in everyday objects and systems.

What are some examples of microscopic and macroscopic phenomena?

Examples of microscopic phenomena include the behavior of individual atoms, the movement of electrons, and the interactions between particles in a chemical reaction. Macroscopic phenomena include the motion of objects, the flow of fluids, and the behavior of gases.

How do microscopic and macroscopic physics relate to each other?

Microscopic and macroscopic physics are interconnected and complement each other. Macroscopic properties and behaviors of matter are a result of the interactions and behaviors of microscopic particles. Understanding the microscopic world helps us explain and predict macroscopic phenomena.

What tools and techniques are used in studying microscopic and macroscopic physics?

Microscopic physics often involves the use of specialized equipment such as microscopes, particle accelerators, and spectroscopes. Macroscopic physics uses tools like thermometers, rulers, and scales to measure and observe the behavior of larger objects and systems.

What are the practical applications of studying microscopic and macroscopic physics?

The study of microscopic and macroscopic physics has led to many practical applications in fields such as medicine, engineering, and technology. It has allowed us to understand and manipulate matter and energy to create new materials, develop new technologies, and improve our understanding of the world around us.

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