Uncertainty principle - light beam

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the implications of the uncertainty principle in quantum mechanics, specifically in relation to light beams passing through slits. It highlights the importance of slit edge imperfections, particularly when the slit width is large, which can lead to a round projection of the beam. The conversation also questions the rationale behind only reducing the width of the slit while neglecting its height, suggesting that such asymmetrical adjustments can cause horizontal distortion in the light beam. The participants assert that human consciousness does not influence the uncertainty principle.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the uncertainty principle in quantum mechanics
  • Knowledge of wave-particle duality of light
  • Familiarity with experimental setups involving slits and light beams
  • Basic principles of optics and light propagation
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the effects of slit edge imperfections on light beam projection
  • Study the mathematical formulation of the uncertainty principle
  • Explore experimental designs that test the uncertainty principle with varying slit dimensions
  • Investigate the implications of wave-particle duality in quantum optics
USEFUL FOR

Physicists, optics researchers, and students studying quantum mechanics who seek to deepen their understanding of light behavior and the uncertainty principle.

Dav333
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In regards to watching this video:


If the distance between the light source & board which the light is being displayed on was far apart like 100m. & you were the only person around observing the results right near the display. Then would the beam still be spread out?

Confused with this, thanks.
 
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Human consciousness has nothing to do with the uncertainty principle.
 
What about the fact that the edges of the slit are vertical, and their imperfection (not smooth but ragged) becomes more and more important with respect to the width of the slot?

Why would not this “physicist” decrease the height of the slot too while the width diminishes?

My point is that in the case of a large slot the beam goes through undisturbed (round projection) and projected as a round.

With the unsymmetrical "type" of reduction of the slot (that is in the vertical direction only) horizontal distortion occurs due to the edges of the slot but not to the vertical direction (because no interaction occurs there).
 

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