Quantum Tunneling: Can it Cause Stable Systems To Transition?

In summary, quantum tunneling can cause unstable systems to quickly reach a stable state without passing through the energy barrier. However, for stable systems with the lowest energy possible, quantum tunneling may only occur if the other states also have the smallest energy or if the tunneling is assisted in some way.
  • #1
Trollfaz
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I have noticed that quantum tunneling can cause unstable systems to suddenly transit to a stable state without going through its energy barrier. Can quantum tunneling cause stable systems, with as low energy as possible, to transit to other states?
 
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  • #2
Trollfaz said:
I have noticed that quantum tunneling can cause unstable systems to suddenly transit to a stable state without going through its energy barrier. Can quantum tunneling cause stable systems, with as low energy as possible, to transit to other states?

Only if these other states also have the smallest energy possible, or if the tunneling was "assisted" in some way (e.g. https://arxiv.org/abs/0807.0754 ).
 

Question 1: What is quantum tunneling?

Quantum tunneling is a phenomenon in which a particle can pass through a potential barrier, despite not having enough energy to do so according to classical physics. This occurs due to the probabilistic nature of quantum mechanics.

Question 2: How does quantum tunneling affect stable systems?

Quantum tunneling can cause stable systems to transition by allowing particles to escape from a potential well that would normally confine them. This can lead to changes in the stability and behavior of the system.

Question 3: Can quantum tunneling cause stable systems to become unstable?

Yes, quantum tunneling can potentially cause stable systems to become unstable by allowing particles to escape from their bound states. This can lead to changes in the energy and dynamics of the system.

Question 4: Is quantum tunneling a common occurrence in nature?

Yes, quantum tunneling is a fundamental aspect of quantum mechanics and is observed in various natural phenomena, such as radioactive decay, nuclear fusion, and electron transport in semiconductors.

Question 5: How is quantum tunneling studied and observed in experiments?

Quantum tunneling is studied and observed in experiments using techniques such as scanning tunneling microscopy, which allows scientists to visualize and manipulate individual atoms on a surface. Other methods include measurements of tunneling currents and spectroscopic techniques.

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