Wave Particle Duality: Masses & Light Speed

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the concept of wave-particle duality, particularly regarding whether all masses exhibit this behavior at speeds near that of light. The scope includes theoretical interpretations and the implications of quantum mechanics on the understanding of particles and waves.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants propose that all objects exhibit wave-particle duality regardless of their speed or mass.
  • Others argue that the term "wave" applied to quantum particles is misleading, suggesting that while quantum particles may exhibit wavelike behavior, they are not actually waves.
  • A later reply emphasizes that the concept of duality is outdated and that modern quantum theory has rendered it obsolete, asserting that nothing shows wave-particle duality in the context of current understanding.
  • One participant references a FAQ that discusses the use of the term "duality" as a pedagogical tool rather than a reflection of physical reality.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express disagreement regarding the validity and relevance of wave-particle duality, with some asserting it is an outdated concept while others maintain that it still holds some explanatory power. The discussion remains unresolved.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include the dependence on interpretations of quantum mechanics and the potential ambiguity in the definitions of "wave" and "particle." There is also a lack of consensus on the significance of wave-particle duality in contemporary physics.

nil1996
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Do all masses show wave particle duality at near about speed of light?
 
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All objects show wave particle duality regardless of speed or mass. Not that I like the term wave applied to quantum particles - its not a wave but sometimes has wavelike behavior.

Added Later:
Vanhees71 is correct. Its an outdated concept. But unfortunately we are stuck with it. But quantum particles sometime do show WAVELIKE behavior - but are not waves - nor is there any actual duality which implies some kind of dual nature (ie both a particle and wave) - which isn't true either.

Also see the FAQ;
https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=511178
'So there is no duality – at least not within quantum mechanics. We still use the “duality” description of light when we try to describe light to laymen because wave and particle are behavior most people are familiar with. However, it doesn’t mean that in physics, or in the working of physicists, such a duality has any significance.'

Thanks
Bill
 
Last edited:
thanks
 
Mentor's note: if there is further discussion, it can proceed in the thread linked above.
 

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