What oscillates in matter waves?

In summary, sound waves and light waves both involve oscillations, but in different forms. Sound waves involve oscillations of pressure in matter, while light waves involve oscillations of electric and magnetic fields. However, the concept of matter waves, proposed by Louis de Broglie, is still a topic of discussion among experts.
  • #1
lawrence123456
2
0
like in sound waves pressure varies(oscillates) and in light electric and magnetic field oscillates
 
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  • #2
Not too sure what you mean by a matter wave.
A wave on the ocean is a wave in matter and since the matter is composed of atoms it's atoms which are oscillating.
The same is true of sound traveling through air, (but not forms of electromagntism, those travel through a field which exists regardless of any matter)

Editing ...
OK, I misunderstood what you meant, you were referring to the wave function proposed by Louis de Broglie.
I'll leave that for somebody more knowlegeable of the subject.
 

1. What is the concept of matter waves?

The concept of matter waves refers to the idea that all particles, including those of matter, can exhibit wave-like behavior. This concept is based on the principles of quantum mechanics, which state that particles can have both wave-like and particle-like properties.

2. What is the relationship between matter waves and energy?

Matter waves and energy are closely related in the sense that matter waves are a manifestation of the energy of a particle. The wavelength of a matter wave is inversely proportional to the energy of the particle, meaning that particles with higher energy have shorter wavelengths and vice versa.

3. What is the significance of oscillation in matter waves?

Oscillation in matter waves refers to the periodic change in the amplitude and direction of the wave. This oscillation is significant because it allows us to determine the energy and momentum of a particle, as well as its position and velocity, through the wave's frequency and wavelength.

4. How do matter waves differ from classical waves?

Matter waves differ from classical waves in several ways. Unlike classical waves, which require a medium to propagate, matter waves can exist in the vacuum of space. Additionally, matter waves exhibit wave-particle duality, meaning they can behave as both waves and particles simultaneously.

5. How are matter waves used in modern technology?

Matter waves have numerous applications in modern technology, including in electron microscopy, atom interferometry, and quantum computing. They also play a crucial role in understanding the behavior of particles at the subatomic level and in the development of new technologies in fields such as medicine and energy.

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