Atom Wave Function: Definition & Explained

In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of a wavefunction and its relation to the physical world. It explains that any wave, including light and atoms, can be reflected by a semitransparent mirror. The wavefunction of each individual photon or atom hitting the mirror splits into two parts, with one part being reflected and the other transmitted. The text also mentions the possibility of dividing an atom's wavefunction into two separate regions, and how this relates to the concept of an "atom interferometer". The question of whether the wavefunction is a physical entity is also brought up, with no definitive answer. Additional resources are recommended for a better understanding of the wavefunction and its implications.
  • #1
gabrielh
79
0
Below is an excerpt from Quantum Enigma: Physics Encounters Consciousness. I have a few questions following the text.

Any wave can be reflected. A semitransparent mirror reflects part of a wave and allows the rest to go through. A glass windowpane, for example, allows some light through and reflects some. A semitransparent mirror for light is a semitransparent mirror for photons. The wavefunction of each individual photon hitting a semitransparent mirror splits, with part being reflected and part transmitted. We can also have semitransparent mirrors for atoms. Encountering such a mirror, an atom's wavefunction splits into two wave packets; one packet goes through, and another is reflected.

Holding an atom in a box pair without disturbing its wavefunction would be tricky, but possible. Dividing the wavefunction of an atom into two well separated regions is frequently accomplished, and that's all we really need for our story. Quantum theory says the atoms "waviness", and therefore the atom itself, is simultaneously in both boxes.

The text goes on to describe that by opening holes in the boxes, the wave function leaks out of both boxes and falls on a screen to which an atom will stick, resulting in an interference pattern. Another option would be to simply open one of these boxes to see which box contained the atom. The act of choosing which experiment to do yielded the results you would expect for that experiment.

I'm looking for a better definition of what the wavefunction is and if it is indeed a physical thing. Also, any simplified explanations of the quoted text is welcomed too.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
gabrielh said:
I'm looking for a better definition of what the wavefunction is and if it is indeed a physical thing. Also, any simplified explanations of the quoted text is welcomed too.
To understand what the wave function is, you'll have to crack open a textbook on quantum mechanics.

Whether the wave function is a physical thing or not is an unresolved question. See for insatnce
https://www.physicsforums.com/threads/ontology-of-wavefunction-vs-ontology-of-electric-field.884957/
To understand what the quoted text means, see
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atom_interferometer
 

FAQ: Atom Wave Function: Definition & Explained

1. What is an atom wave function?

An atom wave function is a mathematical representation of the probability of finding an electron in a particular state or location within an atom. It describes the behavior and properties of the electron in terms of its position, momentum, and spin.

2. How is the atom wave function related to quantum mechanics?

The atom wave function is a key concept in quantum mechanics, which is the branch of physics that studies the behavior of particles at the atomic and subatomic level. It is used to describe the wave-like nature of particles and their uncertain position and momentum.

3. Can the atom wave function be observed?

No, the atom wave function itself cannot be directly observed. It is a mathematical concept that represents the probability of finding an electron in a particular location. However, experiments can be conducted to observe the behavior of electrons and verify the predictions of the wave function.

4. What factors influence the shape of the atom wave function?

The shape of the atom wave function is influenced by the quantum numbers of the electron, which describe its energy, orbital angular momentum, and magnetic moment. The shape also depends on the potential energy of the electron, which is determined by the nucleus and other surrounding particles.

5. How does the atom wave function differ from the electron cloud model?

The electron cloud model is a simplified representation of the atom that shows the general location of electrons around the nucleus. The atom wave function, on the other hand, is a more precise mathematical description of the electron's behavior and probability of being found in a specific location. It takes into account the wave-like nature of particles and the uncertainty principle in quantum mechanics.

Similar threads

Are probability coefficients source for semitransparence
Replies
5
Views
964
I Splitting of a one-particle wave function
Replies
15
Views
1K
I QED/Quantum Mechanics: Probability or Spatial Function?
Replies
8
Views
1K
I "Wave-particle duality" and double-slit experiment
2
Replies
36
Views
4K
B Does the wave function change from the viewpoint of the photon?
Replies
24
Views
1K
I Delayed quantum eraser: turning off sensor to bring back interference
Replies
19
Views
1K
I Instantly reformable wave packets instead of "particles"?
Replies
17
Views
2K
I Elitzur–Vaidman bomb tester in multi-world interpretation
Replies
21
Views
3K
I The HOM Effect, Path Entanglement, and Generation
Replies
5
Views
1K
A What happens when entangled photons are split into different paths?
2
Replies
41
Views
4K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top