Where in physics does randomness occur?

Thread starter Jarfi
Start date Nov 20, 2011
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Physics Randomness

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Randomness in physics is prominently observed in quantum mechanics, particularly with the behavior of electrons. Radioactive decay is another example of true randomness, where a uranium nucleus can remain stable for billions of years before unpredictably emitting an alpha particle. This decay process lacks a known cause, highlighting the inherent unpredictability in certain physical phenomena. Discussions also touch on the broader implications of randomness in the universe and its unpredictability. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the significance of randomness in understanding fundamental physical processes.

Nov 20, 2011

Jarfi

Electrons appear randomly in quantum physics, but are there any other places where particles behave randomly, is there any other true randomness in the universe, something we can not predict?

Last edited: Nov 20, 2011

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Nov 20, 2011

phyzguy

Science Advisor

How about radioactive decay? A uranium nucleus happily sits there for a billion years, then one day emits and alpha particle and decays. Why? There is no known reason.

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