Quantum mechanics

Definition

Quantum mechanics is the branch of physics that studies the behavior of particles at atomic and subatomic levels using principles like wave-particle duality and quantization. It provides the theoretical framework necessary to understand phenomena such as the early universe's conditions and particle interactions during the Big Bang.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Quantum mechanics explains how particles behaved in the extremely high-energy environment immediately following the Big Bang.
2. Heisenberg's Uncertainty Principle, a key concept in quantum mechanics, implies limitations on our ability to simultaneously know certain pairs of properties, such as position and momentum.
3. Quantum fluctuations in the early universe are thought to have led to the large-scale structure of galaxies we observe today.
4. The Planck time, approximately 10^-43 seconds after the Big Bang, marks the earliest period where quantum gravitational effects are significant.
5. Wave-particle duality describes how fundamental particles like photons exhibit both wave-like and particle-like properties, crucial for understanding cosmic microwave background radiation.

Review Questions

• How does quantum mechanics help explain conditions immediately following the Big Bang?
• What is Heisenberg's Uncertainty Principle and why is it important in quantum mechanics?
• How do quantum fluctuations relate to the structure of galaxies observed today?

Related terms

General Relativity:

A theory of gravitation that describes gravity as a curvature of spacetime caused by mass and energy.

Cosmic Microwave Background Radiation:

The thermal radiation left over from the time of recombination in Big Bang cosmology.

Planck Time: The unit of time at which quantum gravitational effects become significant, roughly equal to 10^-43 seconds.