Interference terms in particle spin

In summary, the interference terms in the double slit experiment and the off diagonal terms in the density matrix for an electron with spin |+X> going into a Stern-Gerlach aligned in the z direction indicate interference, but they are not responsible for the direction in which the electrons are deflected in the Stern-Gerlach experiment.
  • #1
deneve
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In the double slit experiment there are interference terms which are responsible for the way in which particles appear on a screen (diffraction pattern). The density matrix for an electron with spin |+X> going into a stern Gerlach alligned in the z direction also has off diagonal terms which idicate interference.

Is it correct to think that these interference terms are responsible for the fact that some electrons end up going up and others down just as particles go above and below a datum line which extends from the middle of the double slits to the screen?

Many thanks for any replies.
 
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  • #2
No, the interference terms are not responsible for the way in which electrons end up going up or down in the Stern-Gerlach experiment. In the Stern-Gerlach experiment, the spin of the electron interacts with a magnetic field, causing it to be deflected either up or down, depending on its spin. This is a result of the interaction between the electron's magnetic moment and the external magnetic field, and is not related to interference.
 

FAQ: Interference terms in particle spin

What are interference terms in particle spin?

Interference terms in particle spin refer to the mathematical expressions that describe the interaction between two or more particles with spin. They are used to calculate the probabilities of different outcomes when particles with spin are in a superposition state.

How do interference terms affect particle spin measurements?

Interference terms can affect particle spin measurements by causing interference patterns to appear. These patterns can be observed when measuring the spin of particles in superposition states, and can provide information about the particles' properties and interactions.

Can interference terms be observed in all particles with spin?

Yes, interference terms can be observed in particles with any type of spin, including spin-1/2 particles such as electrons and spin-1 particles such as protons. However, the effects of interference terms may be more pronounced in particles with larger spin values.

How are interference terms calculated?

Interference terms are calculated using mathematical models, such as the quantum mechanical formalism of density matrices. These models use the properties of particles, such as their spin states and interactions, to determine the probabilities of different outcomes when measuring the particles' spin.

What practical applications do interference terms in particle spin have?

Interference terms in particle spin have a range of practical applications, including in quantum computing, quantum information processing, and quantum cryptography. They also play a crucial role in understanding and studying the fundamental properties of particles and the laws of quantum mechanics.

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