One by one photon delay in double slit experiment

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SUMMARY

In a 'one photon at a time' double slit experiment, the interference pattern will still emerge regardless of the time delay between individual photon emissions, even if that delay spans minutes, hours, or theoretically years. This phenomenon demonstrates the fundamental principles of quantum mechanics, where the behavior of photons remains consistent over time. Additionally, introducing a laser beam between the slits and the detection screen during the emission of photons disrupts the interference pattern, as it alters the wave function of the photons, effectively scrambling their paths.

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  • Understanding of quantum mechanics principles
  • Familiarity with the double slit experiment
  • Knowledge of wave-particle duality
  • Basic concepts of photon behavior and detection
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Students of quantum physics, physicists conducting experiments in quantum mechanics, and anyone interested in the foundational concepts of wave-particle duality and interference patterns.

hkonstas
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In a 'one photon at a time' double slit experiment, does the interference pattern still emerges if the time delay between individual photon emissions is increased to minutes or even hours?
 
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hkonstas said:
In a 'one photon at a time' double slit experiment, does the interference pattern still emerges if the time delay between individual photon emissions is increased to minutes or even hours?
Yes, one dot a time.
 
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Thank you for your reply. I am a beginner in Quantum physics and I am both amazed and perplexed with the double slit experiments. So theoretically the delay can even span for years and the interference pattern will still emerge.

I have one last question: in the same double slit experiment, within the time frame between single photon emissions, if we were to emit momentarily a laser beam between the slit and the detector screen, would that eliminate the interference pattern?

For example:

1- Emission of 1 photon through the double slit.
2-The photon hits the detection screen
3-A laser beam passes between the detection screen and the slits (wave scrambling?)
4-Another photon is emmited.

And so on.. would the interference pattern still emerge?
 

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