De Broglie wavelength of an ant

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The discussion centers on calculating the de Broglie wavelength of an ant with a mass of 1.80×10−6 kg passing through a 5.00 mm diameter hole. Participants agree that the wavelength should be approximately equal to the hole's diameter for the ant to exhibit wave behavior. There is a question about whether the amplitude of the wave should correspond to the radius of the hole, but it is clarified that amplitude does not significantly influence diffraction. The conversation emphasizes the relationship between wavelength and the size of the aperture in wave behavior. Understanding these concepts is crucial for applying de Broglie's formula effectively.
DunceMoin
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An ant of mass m = 1.80×10−6 kg goes through a hole of diameter D = 5.00 mm in a window screen which has thickness L = 0.600 mm.

(a) What should be the approximate wavelength and speed of the ant for it to show wave behavior as it goes through the hole?

I am not sure what should the approximate wavelength be. Should it be of the order of the diameter of hole? If not, what's the concept involved? Also, once we have wavelength, the speed should be very simple to calculate from de Broglie's formula.
 
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Hello and welcome to PF!

I think you have the right idea: the wavelength should be of the order of the diameter of the hole.
 
TSny said:
wavelength should be of the order of the diameter of the hole
Shouldn't amplitude be of the order of the radius? just asking.
 
Suraj M said:
Shouldn't amplitude be of the order of the radius? just asking.
I don't believe so. The amplitude of a wave does not have a direct effect on the amount of diffraction.
 

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