Quantum Mechanics Practical Scenarios

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the practical applications of quantum physics, particularly in relation to solid state physics, theoretical chemistry, and quantum computation. Participants explore how quantum mechanics is utilized in real-world scenarios and seek resources for better understanding these applications.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses a desire to understand the practical applications of quantum physics, noting a lack of real-world examples in existing literature.
  • Another participant argues that quantum theory governs all matter and is foundational to technologies such as semiconductors and transistors.
  • A participant clarifies that their interest lies in understanding how specific quantum mechanics topics, like the linear harmonic oscillator, apply to real-world entities.
  • It is mentioned that quantum physics is essential in solid state physics and theoretical chemistry, particularly in calculating molecular geometries and properties using quantum mechanical methods.
  • One participant suggests that understanding quantum mechanics is necessary for studying solid state physics and electronics.
  • Another participant highlights quantum computation as an exciting and practical application of quantum mechanics.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the significance of quantum mechanics in various fields, but there is no consensus on specific real-world applications or how to effectively bridge theoretical concepts with practical usage.

Contextual Notes

Participants express uncertainty regarding the application of specific quantum mechanics topics and the availability of resources that connect theory to practice. There are also varying interpretations of what constitutes "real-world" applications.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in pursuing research in quantum physics, solid state physics, theoretical chemistry, or quantum computation may find this discussion relevant.

Vphysics2013
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I want to pursue my Masters in Research in the field of Quantum physics. I would like to understand the practical usage of quantum physics for eg: where it is used in real world and if any books to refer regarding the practical usage.

I have good collection of books on quantum physics which never explain the real world scenarios. Any assistance would be appreciated.

cheers! VP
 
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What do you mean by real world?

Anything around us is governed by the laws of quantum theory, at least there is no known case where quantum theory is invalid. The very fact that matter around us is stable, given the atomistic structure of it, is a quantum phenomenon. The computer or better said semiconductors, transistors, integrated circuits and all that it is based on, I'm typing this posting on is an application of quantum theory and so on...
 
vanhees71,
What I meant by Real world is , there are many theories ,laws and principles are there in quantum mechanics .whenever I read any topic for example Linear harmonic oscillator , there equations mentioned for which some solutions are given .I could understand the equations and solutions given .But it always making me incomplete in understanding the topic without knowing where to apply this? which real world entity is applied to the topic.No textbooks are supporting such examples.so I really wants an advice how how to apply the theories given .any advice would be appreciated.

cheers !
 
Last edited:
OP, quantum physics is daily working material in solid state physics and theoretical chemistry. For example, everything "electronic structure" is inherently quantum mechanic.

To give you an example, in computational chemistry molecular geometries and properties are routinely calculated using either Kohn-Sham density functional methods or wave function methods (both being quantum mechanical approaches). The harmonic oscillator approximations you mentioned are then often employed (for computational cost reasons) to estimate statistical partition functions in order to calculate finite-temperature properties like enthalpies, entropies, etc.
 
In case the quantum mechanics is applying in semiconductors ,transistors ,molecular geometries , can I say like this..."quantum mechanics is necessarily to be understand to study solid state physics and electronics."
 

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