- #1
Ronmarc
Would it be theoretically possible to perform a two slit experiment with, say, baseballs? How would such an experiment need be set up?
Two slit experiment w baseballs
- Context: Undergrad
- Thread starter Ronmarc
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SUMMARY
The discussion centers on the feasibility of conducting a two-slit experiment using baseballs. Participants conclude that while it may be theoretically possible, practical challenges render it unfeasible. The primary obstacle is the requirement to prevent which-path information from being available, as baseballs emit light and heat, making isolation nearly impossible. The largest object successfully diffracted to demonstrate interference is C60 (buckminsterfullerene), highlighting the limitations of using macroscopic objects like baseballs in quantum experiments.
PREREQUISITES- Understanding of quantum mechanics principles
- Familiarity with the two-slit experiment
- Knowledge of diffraction and interference patterns
- Concept of which-path information in quantum physics
- Research the implications of which-path information in quantum experiments
- Explore the properties and applications of C60 (buckminsterfullerene) in quantum physics
- Investigate methods for achieving isolation in quantum experiments
- Learn about macroscopic quantum phenomena and their limitations
Physics students, quantum mechanics researchers, and anyone interested in the practical applications of quantum theory in macroscopic objects.
- #2
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No, not really. Baseballs are not quantum objects. THEORETICALLY, it is perhaps not literally impossible but I don't believe that in practice that it is possible.Ronmarc said:
https://www.physicsforums.com/threads/buckyball-double-slit-experiment.487816/
- #3
Ronmarc
Thank you. But in the link you provided, someone states that the two slit experiment could be performed on asteroids "in perfect isolation". I'm confused.phinds said:
- #4
DrChinese
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Ronmarc said:
About the largest object that has been diffracted to show interference is C60 (buckminsterfullerene):
http://www.univie.ac.at/qfp/research/matterwave/c60/index.html
Keep in mind that to show the interference, you cannot know which-path information. That is why the comment was made about being in isolation. Clearly, that alone would be a severe challenge with baseballs that emit light/heat. That would tell you, at least in principle, which path the object took.
- #5
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I don't see any conflict with that statement and my statement. As DrChinese pointed out, the practical aspects of keeping baseballs "in perfect isolation" are pretty much insurmountable. Just because math says that something is theoretically possible does NOT mean that it can be made to happen in the real world.Ronmarc said:
- #6
mikeyork
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You could do it if you could prevent any knowledge of which slit they passed through from being available in the knowable universe. If you think about it, it would be very difficult for nothing anywhere to notice baseballs en route through baseball size slits.
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