Particle-wave duality

Definition

Particle-wave duality is the concept in quantum mechanics that every particle or quantum entity exhibits both wave and particle properties. This duality is a fundamental aspect of nature, influencing the behavior of particles at atomic and subatomic levels.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Louis de Broglie proposed that particles such as electrons exhibit wave-like properties, which was later confirmed experimentally.
2. The famous double-slit experiment demonstrates particle-wave duality by showing that particles like electrons create an interference pattern when not observed, indicating wave behavior.
3. Wave-particle duality is mathematically described by the de Broglie wavelength formula: $\lambda = \frac{h}{p}$, where $\lambda$ is the wavelength, $h$ is Planck's constant, and $p$ is momentum.
4. Quantum objects do not fit into classical categories of 'particle' or 'wave,' but instead exhibit characteristics of both depending on how they are measured.
5. The concept of complementarity introduced by Niels Bohr states that wave and particle aspects are complementary; different experiments reveal one aspect over the other.

Review Questions

• What experiment provides evidence for particle-wave duality?
• How does de Broglie's hypothesis relate to the momentum of a particle?
• What does the principle of complementarity state about observing quantum phenomena?

Related terms

Double-Slit Experiment: An experimental setup where particles pass through two slits and create an interference pattern on a screen, demonstrating both wave-like and particle-like behaviors.

de Broglie Wavelength: $\lambda = \frac{h}{p}$, where $\lambda$ is the wavelength associated with a moving particle, $h$ is Planck's constant, and $p$ is the particle's momentum.

Complementarity: A principle introduced by Niels Bohr stating that physical systems possess complementary properties which cannot be observed or measured simultaneously.