Quantum Mechanics: Origin of the Term & Why Mechanics?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the terminology of 'quantum mechanics,' specifically exploring the origin of the term and the appropriateness of 'mechanics' in the context of quantum physics. Participants express interest in the historical and etymological aspects of the term, as well as its implications in relation to classical mechanics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions why 'quantum physics' is referred to as 'mechanics,' seeking the term's origin and suitability.
  • Another participant notes parallels between quantum mechanics and classical mechanics, suggesting similarities in problem-solving techniques such as Lagrangian and Hamiltonian methods.
  • A participant with limited physics background expresses curiosity about the etymology of 'mechanics,' associating it with mechanical concepts.
  • One participant explains that 'mechanics' in physics has a broader meaning than in everyday language, encompassing various approaches to physics problems, including fields and fluids.
  • A later reply acknowledges the explanation provided and expresses a feeling of incongruity regarding the application of mechanics to fields.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the appropriateness of the term 'mechanics' in quantum physics, with some finding it suitable due to its broader application in physics, while others feel a disconnect between the term and its application to fields.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight the historical context of the term 'mechanics' and its application across different areas of physics, indicating that the discussion may be limited by varying interpretations of the term and its implications.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be of interest to those exploring the terminology and conceptual foundations of quantum physics, as well as individuals curious about the connections between classical and quantum mechanics.

Quotidian
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Why is 'quantum physics' often referred to as 'mechanics'? I'm interested in the specific origin of the term - when it came into vogue, and why 'mechanics' was thought suitable as a term, when it doesn't seem at all obvious that the subject matter involves mechanical principles.
 
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Have you learned any QM? If so, were you not struck by the parallels between QM and Classical mechanics? The same kinds of problems using similar techniques (Lagrangian and Hamiltonian) as Classical?
 
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I've read popular science books, like Brian Greene and Paul Davies, but have never studied physics after high school. But the term has entered popular discourse, so I'm just interested in the etymology. 'Quantum Physics' seems fairly self-evident but I associate 'mechanics' with mechanical (perhaps incorrectly!)
 
Quotidian said:
but I associate 'mechanics' with mechanical (perhaps incorrectly!)
The term ''mechanics'' is used in physics in a much more general way than in everyday life. For example, classical electrodynamics and fluid flow (''fluid mechanics'') are also treated according to the principles of classical mechanics.

Mechanics is a particular, systematic and general way to approach arbitrary problems in physics by means of forces acting upon objects, whether the objects are particles, solids, fluids, or fields. Its modern form exists in two closely related approaches - Lagrangian mechanics and Hamiltonian mechanics. For the history see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mechanics.

Thus quantum physics treated by the quantum version of the same principles is called quantum mechanics.
 
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That's interesting! That is actually just the explanation I was looking for. (I hadn't thought to look up the Wikipedia entry on mechanics.) But I think the incongruity I'm feeling is the application of mechanics to 'fields'.
 

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