Why do we think particle is wave and probability also wave?

In summary, particles have been shown to exhibit wave-like behavior through experiments such as the double slit experiment. In classical physics, this was difficult to explain, leading to the concept of a wavefunction as a wave of possibility. The term "wave" corresponds to certain physical behaviors that can be described mathematically, and particles can exhibit these behaviors. The probability of observing a particle is also wave-like, giving the particle its wave-like appearance. However, there are still differing interpretations and explanations for this phenomenon.
  • #1
HeilPhysicsPhysics
16
0
Why do we think particle is wave and probability also wave?
If probability is wave,what is its wavelength,frequency,amplitude,period?
 
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  • #2
The results of the experiments (e.g. double slit experiment) proved that the particles have some wave characteristics. So, our experience through these experiments shows that the particles behave as a wave when they travel and as particle when they interact with matter.

In classic physics it is impossible to define both wave and particle behaviour. Function Φ (which is the solution of Schroedinger's equation) cannot describe "something" natural, because its solutions are complex values. The only way to explain this problem was the statistic explanation. According to this explanation, the wavefunction is not a classical wave, but a wave of possibility.
 
  • #3
HeilPhysicsPhysics said:
Why do we think particle is wave and probability also wave?
If probability is wave,what is its wavelength,frequency,amplitude,period?

Hey, let me refer you to our Physics FAQ where we have dealt with this particle/wave conundrum.

Regards
marlon
 
  • #4
But why we call it "wave"?
And is its amplitude mean probability?
 
  • #5
HeilPhysicsPhysics said:
But why we call it "wave"?
And is its amplitude mean probability?
Didn't you read the FAQ. The term "wave" corresponds to a certain physical behaviour (eg interference, diffraction, etc etc) that can be explained mathematically by concepts like wavelength, etc etc. A particle can be described by these concepts because particles DO exhibit "wavelike" kind of physical behaviour. That is the basic idea

marlon
 
  • #6
Illusive duality...

HeilPhysicsPhysics said:
Why do we think particle is wave and probability also wave?

The probability of observing a particle is wave-like. This gives the particle its wave-like appearance. The particle only exists when it's observed, otherwise it's just potential. If I'm wrong on this interpretation, I hope to be corrected.
 
  • #7
If your still not sure then perhaps this animated video will help:
[crackpot movie link removed]

There is also a few videos here (a little more detailed and not quite as entertaining):
[link removed - Zz]
 
Last edited by a moderator:
  • #8
Please note that What the bleep... is considered to be a CRACKPOT movie. Do not promote nor post crackpot link in PF, per our Guidelines.

Zz.
 

1. Why do we think particles are waves?

The concept of particles possessing wave-like properties originated from observations in the field of quantum mechanics. In experiments, particles were found to exhibit behaviors such as diffraction and interference, which are characteristics of waves. This led scientists to theorize that particles have both particle-like and wave-like properties.

2. How is probability related to waves?

In quantum mechanics, the behavior of particles is described by a mathematical function called the wave function. This function represents the probability of finding a particle in a certain location or state. The wave-like nature of particles can be seen in the way the wave function evolves over time, similar to how a wave propagates through space.

3. Can particles be in multiple places at once?

According to quantum mechanics, particles exist in a state of superposition, meaning they can exist in multiple states or locations simultaneously. This is due to the wave-like nature of particles, where the wave function spreads out over space. The exact location or state of a particle is only determined when it is observed or measured.

4. Why is the behavior of particles described by probabilities?

In classical physics, the behavior of particles is deterministic, meaning it can be predicted with certainty. However, in quantum mechanics, the behavior of particles is described by probabilities due to the inherent uncertainty in the nature of particles. This is known as the Heisenberg uncertainty principle, which states that it is impossible to know both the position and momentum of a particle with absolute certainty.

5. How do we reconcile the particle-wave duality of particles?

The particle-wave duality of particles is a fundamental concept in quantum mechanics and is not easily reconciled with classical physics. However, many scientists believe that particles do not have a definitive nature and can behave as either particles or waves depending on the experimental setup. This is known as the wave-particle duality, and it is best explained by the mathematical framework of quantum mechanics.

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