Exploring the Nature of Matter: Particles, Waves, and Beyond

In summary, molecules that exhibit resonance forms are a hybrid of these forms and are influenced by them, but still maintain their fundamental nature. Similarly, something that can be described as a particle or a wave is a combination of both, with a shared fundamental nature. Therefore, the concept of matter cannot be limited to particles or waves, but is determined by context, such as the Copenhagen interpretation. Discovering the true nature of matter may lead to a Nobel Prize.
  • #1
query_ious
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In chemistry, a molecule that can be described by various resonance forms is in reality a hybrid, different from all of these forms yet still 'influenced' by them. This does not change the fundamental nature of the molecule (i.e. atoms bonded together etc.), only means that we lack a single 'model' that integrates these differences.

By the same logic something that can be described either as a particle or as a wave is neither of them, but something else 'influenced' by both, something that has a shared fundamental nature (?) with both models but is effectively different.

Thus, 'matter' is not 'particles' and is not 'waves' - so what is it?
 
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  • #2
query_ious said:
Thus, 'matter' is not 'particles' and is not 'waves' - so what is it?

Maybe...

That which has inertia?

The nature of matter is determined by context, e.g., the Copenhagen interpretation.
 
  • #3
better watch the nobel prizes, if someone finds the answer they're sure to win one...
 

FAQ: Exploring the Nature of Matter: Particles, Waves, and Beyond

What is the nature of matter?

Matter is anything that has mass and takes up space. It is made up of tiny particles called atoms, which are the building blocks of all matter.

What are particles and waves?

Particles are tiny bits of matter that make up everything in the universe. Waves, on the other hand, are energy that travels through space and matter.

How are particles and waves related?

Particles and waves are actually two sides of the same coin. According to quantum mechanics, all particles exhibit wave-like behavior and all waves can behave like particles. This is known as wave-particle duality.

What is the Standard Model of particle physics?

The Standard Model is a theory that describes the fundamental particles and forces that make up the universe. It explains how particles interact with each other and how they form the basic building blocks of matter.

What lies beyond the Standard Model?

While the Standard Model has been successful in explaining many phenomena, there are still unanswered questions and unexplained observations that suggest there is more to the nature of matter. Scientists are currently exploring theories such as supersymmetry, string theory, and extra dimensions to try and understand the mysteries of the universe beyond the Standard Model.

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