Wave-particle duality is a fundamental principle of quantum mechanics that describes the behavior of particles as both waves and particles. This means that particles can exhibit wave-like properties, such as interference and diffraction, in addition to behaving like a localized particle.
The concept of wave-particle duality was first proposed by French physicist Louis de Broglie in 1924. He suggested that all particles, not just light, could exhibit both wave and particle behavior.
Wave-particle duality challenges our traditional understanding of the physical world, which is based on classical mechanics. It suggests that the behavior of particles at the quantum level is fundamentally different from what we observe in our everyday lives.
The double-slit experiment is a famous experiment that demonstrates the wave-like behavior of particles. It involves passing a beam of particles, such as electrons or photons, through two parallel slits. The resulting interference pattern on a screen behind the slits shows that the particles behave like waves, with peaks and troughs, as they pass through the slits.
Yes, wave-particle duality applies to all particles, including electrons, protons, and even larger particles like atoms and molecules. However, the effects of wave-particle duality become more pronounced at the quantum level, where the wavelength of the particle is comparable to the size of the object.