What is quantum physics used for?

[FishmanGeertz]

I know absolutely nothing about physics. I know that classical mechanics is used in engineering and whatnot, but could anyone explain the uses of quantum physics?

 

[Drakkith]

It is used in electronics, engineering, other scientific fields, and in some way is related to almost every field out there. Without quantum physics, I don't think we would know how a semiconductor works, and would probably be far less advanced technologically.

 

[bugatti79]

I know absolutely nothing about physics. I know that classical mechanics is used in engineering and whatnot, but could anyone explain the uses of quantum physics?

Check out the application section of this wiki link
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quantum_mechanics

 

[FishmanGeertz]

What about astronomy and astrophysics?

 

[Drakkith]

What about astronomy and astrophysics?

I would say most likely. I'm not sure the process behind nuclear fusion and other stellar phenomena would be understood as well as they are without quantum mechanics.

 

[cassio]

you can use quantum mechanics to describe white dwarfs, this was used to solve a paradox that Einstein was trying to reconcile.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/White_dwarf#Radiation_and_cooling

 

[alxm]

"Providing the underlying theory for almost all of chemistry" is also a pretty significant use, IMO. :)

 

[Drakkith]

"Providing the underlying theory for almost all of chemistry" is also a pretty significant use, IMO. :)

Agreed!

 

[James50]

I would say most likely. I'm not sure the process behind nuclear fusion and other stellar phenomena would be understood as well as they are without quantum mechanics.

Nuclear fusion would practically impossible without a bit of quantum tunnelling!