High School Practical applications of quantum mechanics

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Quantum mechanics is fundamental to the functionality of all modern electronic devices, including diodes, transistors, and integrated circuits. These solid-state devices rely on the interaction of electrons and quasi-particles known as holes, which cannot be accurately understood without quantum mechanics. Misconceptions abound in popular literature and beginner textbooks about quantum mechanics and quantum field theory, leading to widespread misunderstandings even among educators. The complexity of quantum field theory further complicates accurate comprehension, highlighting the need for a deeper understanding of these concepts. Overall, quantum mechanics plays a crucial role in optimizing technology and improving human existence.
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What are some of the practical applications of quantum mechanics that are being utilized to optimize our existence as a species?
 
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Diodes.
 
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Jilang said:
Diodes.

All solid-state devices, diodes, transistors, integrated circuits, computers - just about anything electronic in modern times requires QM to work. Our modern world would not exist without it.

Solid state devices work by an interaction of electrons and so called holes. Holes at the intuitive level can be thought of as the absence of electrons, and you will find many textbooks explaining how such work using that idea. It's wrong - that holes exist and act like particles (called quasi particles) requires QM.

You will find many things in popularization's and beginner textbooks, especially in things related to QM are wrong, and becomes much much worse when you move onto so called Quantum Field theory. Its so bad in QFT we have professors on this site that teach this stuff that people don't believe when they are told its wrong - it really is that bad. They believe the popularization's - its quite maddening really so its wise to be aware of it early on.

Thanks
Bill
 
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Thread 'One does not “prove” the basic principles of Quantum Mechanics'

I am slowly going through the book 'What Is a Quantum Field Theory?' by Michel Talagrand. I came across the following quote: One does not" prove” the basic principles of Quantum Mechanics. The ultimate test for a model is the agreement of its predictions with experiments. Although it may seem trite, it does fit in with my modelling view of QM. The more I think about it, the more I believe it could be saying something quite profound. For example, precisely what is the justification of...
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