Wave Particle Duality Question

In summary, after conducting research, it can be understood that wave particle duality refers to the ability of a quantum system to exhibit both wave-like and particle-like behavior. This is due to the fact that the system exists in a state of superposition until it is measured, at which point it collapses into a single state. This concept is important in quantum field theory, as it allows for both continuous and discrete descriptions of a system.
  • #1
Guymillion
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Okay, so after a little research I think I have a fairly good understanding of wave particle duality. A wave function is just a wave of probability. You don't know where the particle will be until you measure it. Until then, the particle will be in superposition. While it is in superposition, it can interfere with itself, causing an interference pattern to occur in the double slit experiment. The act of measurement means that the position that the particle is in directly affects you, and because it matters which state it is in, it is no longer in superposition and it is placed in one of its possible states. In the double slit experiment, it isn't really a wave, it only acts like a wave because it interferes with itself while it is in superposition.

1. Is this understanding right?
2. How does this work into the wave particle duality?

I was EXTREMELY confused by this video:

youtube.com/watch?v=_riIY-v2Ym8

I also watched this video:

youtube.com/watch?v=wEzRdZGYNvA

Thanks if anyone can help!
 
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  • #2
Welcome to PF!

Yes, that is the correct description. Since wavefunction collapse (the process of obtaining information about a system that makes its state apparent) is intrinsically random, an observer can describe a quantum system only by the probability of a certain outcome occurring. In particular, each outcome is assigned a probability amplitude - which is the modulus of the square root of the probability of finding the system in a particular state.

Also, W-P duality allows you to use both descriptions - particle and wave. This is very important in quantum field theory. You can describe an electromagnetic wave as a continuous ray of light, or a discrete number of excited photons, with each description being valid.
 
  • #3
Thanks! That helps me understand!
 

1. What is wave-particle duality?

Wave-particle duality is a concept in quantum mechanics that describes the behavior of particles as both waves and particles. This means that particles can exhibit properties of both waves (such as interference and diffraction) and particles (such as position and momentum).

2. How was wave-particle duality discovered?

Wave-particle duality was first proposed by physicist Louis de Broglie in 1924, based on his hypothesis that particles could exhibit wave-like properties. This was later confirmed by experiments, including the famous double-slit experiment, which showed that particles could interfere with themselves like waves.

3. What is the significance of wave-particle duality?

Wave-particle duality is significant because it challenges our classical understanding of particles and waves. It also plays a crucial role in quantum mechanics and helps explain various phenomena, such as the behavior of electrons in atoms and the concept of quantum entanglement.

4. Can we observe both the wave and particle nature of a particle at the same time?

No, it is not possible to observe both the wave and particle nature of a particle simultaneously. This is known as the principle of complementarity, which states that a particle can only exhibit one aspect at a time, depending on the experimental setup.

5. How does wave-particle duality impact our daily lives?

Wave-particle duality has a significant impact on our daily lives, as it is the fundamental principle behind many modern technologies, such as transistors, lasers, and solar panels. It also plays a crucial role in fields such as quantum computing and cryptography.

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