Wondering if diffraction could be observed even in humans

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SUMMARY

Diffraction is not observable in humans due to their extremely small De Broglie wavelength, which approaches zero. According to de Broglie's relation \(\lambda = h/p\), where \(h\) is Planck's constant and \(p\) is momentum, humans operate within the ray optics limit, exhibiting no interference effects. The discussion emphasizes that even in hypothetical scenarios, such as being fired from a cannon, diffraction remains unobservable.

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  • Basic knowledge of Planck's constant and momentum
  • Awareness of interference effects in wave phenomena
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Students and professionals in physics, particularly those interested in quantum mechanics, wave optics, and the fundamental principles governing diffraction and interference.

prochatz
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Hello,
I was wondering if diffraction could be observed even in humans, but I can't prove it. Which is the De Broglie wavelength of a human? Is it possible to observe diffraction when a human passes through a door?:rolleyes:
 
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prochatz said:
Hello,
I was wondering if diffraction could be observed even in humans, but I can't prove it. Which is the De Broglie wavelength of a human? Is it possible to observe diffraction when a human passes through a door?:rolleyes:

Do you observe any diffraction when you pass through a door?!

From de Broglie's relation \lambda=h/p,you know that your \lambda is close to zero---so you are in the ray optics limit(you may like to see the accompanying thread 'Path integral formulation of wave-optics') and you behave quite decently--no interference effects.

P.S. Let me add that if you were fired from a cannon towards the door(rather than walking through the door)your question would be more appropriate,but the answer is the same--no diffraction!
 

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