Ref for single electron double slit experiments

In summary, the conversation discusses the use of single electron realizations in the double slit experiment as proof of particle/wave duality. The experiment has been successfully conducted with molecules and photons, but the use of single electrons is still being researched. The possibility of observing one slit and causing the wave function to collapse is also mentioned. A book on the history of this experiment is recommended for further reading.
  • #1
marsdk
15
0
Hi there,

Single electron realizations of the double slit experiment is always mentioned as one of the standards 'proofs' of particle/wave duality, along with a series of pictures with single dots appearing in an interference pattern.

Has anyone ever made the experiment with single electrons (or neutrons or other massive particles)? And are those famous pictures just pure thought experiment, or from an actual article?

I know that is has been made with molecules up to the size C60 molecules (and in the C60 case, it was in effect one molecule at a time, according to the article by Nairz), and that Taylor made it with single photons as long ago as 1910'ish.

However I would like to know about the electron case.

PS: Has anyone experimentally tried 'observing one slit' and witnessed the following collapse of the wave function ?

Mikkel
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
http://www.hitachi.com/rd/research/em/doubleslit.html
 
  • #3
There's some interesting info on the history behind this experiment in Mark Silverman's book on quantum superposition. The description is at the very beginning of the book, which you can read for free on Google Books preview.
 
  • #4
jtbell said:
http://www.hitachi.com/rd/research/em/doubleslit.html

That was awesome...
 

1. What is the purpose of using a single electron for double slit experiments?

The use of a single electron allows scientists to study the wave-particle duality of light. By observing the interference pattern created by a single electron passing through double slits, researchers can better understand the behavior of quantum particles.

2. How is a single electron produced for these experiments?

Electrons are typically produced using a method called thermionic emission, where a heated filament emits electrons that are then accelerated through a potential difference and focused into a narrow beam.

3. What is the role of the reference detector in these experiments?

The reference detector is used to measure the position and momentum of the electron before it passes through the double slits. This information is necessary for comparing the behavior of the electron before and after passing through the slits.

4. How do scientists ensure that only a single electron passes through the double slits?

Special techniques and equipment, such as using a very low intensity electron beam and precise timing, are used to ensure that only one electron passes through the double slits at a time. This is crucial for accurately measuring the interference pattern.

5. What implications do these experiments have for our understanding of quantum mechanics?

The results of these experiments have challenged traditional ideas about the behavior of particles at the quantum level. They have provided evidence for the wave-particle duality of light and highlighted the importance of observer effects in quantum mechanics.

Similar threads

Replies
32
Views
2K
Replies
3
Views
813
  • Quantum Physics
Replies
14
Views
1K
Replies
26
Views
1K
Replies
60
Views
2K
  • Quantum Physics
Replies
17
Views
1K
Replies
28
Views
4K
Replies
5
Views
850
Replies
1
Views
933
  • Quantum Physics
Replies
33
Views
2K
Back
Top