
THE
EVOLUTION OF QUANTUM MECHANICS
1.Quantum mechanics:
How we went from a 'weird' theory to the bedrock of modern physics
Quantum mechanics is the branch of physics that studies the behavior of matter and energy at the atomic and subatomic levels. It is considered to be the foundation of modern physics, because it explains the strange and seemingly bizarre behavior of particles on a very small scale.
Quantum mechanics was first developed in the early 1900s, and has since been constantly refined and improved upon. It is now an essential tool for physicists and engineers, who use it to develop new technologies and understand the natural world.
2. How did quantum mechanics begin?
Quantum mechanics began with the work of Max Planck, who was trying to understand the behavior of radiation. He made the revolutionary discovery that energy is not continuous, but comes in small packets, or quanta. This led to the development of quantum theory, which explained the strange behavior of subatomic particles.
3. What is quantum entanglement?
Quantum entanglement is a phenomenon in which particles that have interacted with each other remain connected, even when they are separated. This means that they can instantaneously share information and influence each other's behavior, regardless of distance.
4. What is a quantum superposition?
A quantum superposition is a state of a particle that comprises a combination of its possible states. Essentially, this means that the particle exists in multiple states simultaneously. This phenomenon is what gives rise to the strange and seemingly bizarre behavior of particles at the quantum level.
5. How does quantum tunneling work?
Quantum tunneling is a phenomenon that occurs when a particle is able to pass through a barrier that it would not be able to classically. This is because the particle exists in a superposition of states, meaning that it effectively exists in multiple places at once. When the particle encounters the barrier, it is able to take any path that leads to the other side of the barrier.
6. What is quantum teleportation?
Quantum teleportation is a phenomenon that occurs when a particle is able to instantaneously travel from one place to another without passing through the intervening space. When the particle teleports, it is able to take any path that leads to the destination, regardless of the distance.
7. What is a quantum computer?
A quantum computer is a computer that makes use of quantum mechanics to store and process information. These computers are incredibly powerful, able to perform calculations that are beyond the reach of classical computers. Quantum computers are still in their early stages of development, but they hold great promise for the future.