Relation between mass and wave function

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the relationship between mass and the wave function, particularly focusing on whether there is a mathematical correlation between the mass of a particle and the intensity of the wave it exhibits. The scope includes theoretical considerations and interpretations of quantum mechanics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests that there may be a mathematical relation between mass and the intensity of the wave function, questioning if such a relationship exists.
  • Another participant references the de Broglie wavelength formula, indicating that wavelength is inversely related to momentum, which is dependent on mass and velocity.
  • A different participant emphasizes that while the de Broglie wavelength is relevant, they seek a specific relationship between mass and wave intensity.
  • One participant challenges the notion that wave functions can be detected, stating that they cannot be observed directly or indirectly and that quantum mechanics only allows for testing predictions based on probabilities derived from the wave function.
  • Another participant mentions the electron double-slit experiment, noting that the intensity of the wave is related to the number of particles involved, while asserting that mass does not have a direct relationship to wave intensity.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the relationship between mass and wave intensity, with some arguing for a connection while others assert that mass does not directly influence wave intensity. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the specific relationship between these concepts.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations in the discussion regarding the definitions of wave function and intensity, as well as the assumptions about the detectability of wave functions. The relationship between mass and wave properties is not clearly established.

nil1996
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We know that electrons are nearly massless so their wave funtion is quite easily detectable.So is there any mathematical relation between the mass of the body and the intensity of the wave it exhibits?

thanks
 
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Hi.

de Broglie wavelength [itex]\lambda=\frac{h}{p}=\frac{h}{mv}[/itex] ,where h is Planck's constant, m is mass of particle and v is velocity, may be of your interest. In the scale of order [itex]\lambda[/itex] you will observe wave properties.
 
sweet springs said:
Hi.

de Broglie wavelength [itex]\lambda=\frac{h}{p}=\frac{h}{mv}[/itex] ,where h is Planck's constant, m is mass of particle and v is velocity, may be of your interest. In the scale of order [itex]\lambda[/itex] you will observe wave properties.
but i want a relationship between mass and intensity of wave exhibited by it.
 
nil1996 said:
We know that electrons are nearly massless so their wave funtion is quite easily detectable.

It is not correct.We don't detect wave functions.we can't observe them,neither directly nor indirectly.Some interpretations of QM even deny its physical reality!
We only can test the predictions of QM.The norm squared of the wave function gives the probability for a quantity to have a certain value and experimenters test those probabilities by measuring ensemble averages of that quantity.

The only point is that,Quantum effects become important only when the typical momentums get smaller and smaller.
 
Last edited:
Hi.

One electron double slit experiment by Akira Tonomura shows that intensity of the wave depends on numbers of particles involved. Momentum relates wavelength. Numbers relates intensity. However mass does not have direct relationship to wave.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
thanx

thanks for the replies
 

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