Quantum Physics: The Reaction of a Photon Passing Through a Slit in a Plate

In summary, the conversation discussed the concept of diffraction in quantum physics and questioned whether the reaction of a photon passing through a slit is felt by the plate at the time it passes through the hole or at the time it reaches the screen. If the reaction occurs at the time of passing through the hole, it may be possible to measure the reaction force with high precision, but this could potentially violate the Heisenberg uncertainty principle. If the reaction occurs at the time of reaching the screen, it may be possible to send information faster than the speed of light by manipulating the distance traveled by the photon. However, this idea raises questions about the accuracy of knowing the particle's position and the validity of the uncertainty principle.
  • #1
goran d
32
0
We got a light source and the light comes through a slit in a plate. A photon passes through the slit and ends up somewhere on a screen not in the straight direction due to diffraction. The question is, in quantum physics, does the plate feel the reaction of the photon deflection (1) at the time it passes through the hole or (2) at the time it reaches the screen?
(1)If the reaction happens at time the photon passes through the hole, then, we could, with a very light plate, measure the reaction force to an arbitrary precision. And we know the error in position, it's the same as the slit width. What will stop us from measuring the reaction to a high precision, so that Heisenberg uncertainity principle is obeyed?
(2)If the reaction happens when the photon reaches the screen, then, by having two screens, we can open one sometimes so that the light goes further, to the second. And when it's closed, it'll go closer distance. So then, we can send information at a speed greater than the speed of light from the screens back to the plate by measuring it's reaction.
 
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  • #2
Presumably the plate is light so it will move? If it moves are you sure you know where the particle is?
 
  • #3
I ve to say 1) seems valid to me but then again it breaks down uncertainty.

But i am lost about 2) can someone explain how is it possible that the reaction happens when the photon reaches the screen and how we are able to send information with speed greater than c?
 

FAQ: Quantum Physics: The Reaction of a Photon Passing Through a Slit in a Plate

1. What is quantum physics?

Quantum physics is a branch of physics that studies the behavior of matter and energy at a very small scale, such as atoms and subatomic particles. It is based on the principles of quantum mechanics and describes the fundamental nature of particles and their interactions.

2. How does a photon pass through a slit in a plate?

A photon, being a particle of light, has a dual nature and can behave as both a wave and a particle. When it passes through a slit in a plate, it exhibits diffraction, meaning it spreads out and creates an interference pattern. This is due to the wave-like nature of the photon.

3. Why is studying the reaction of a photon passing through a slit in a plate important?

Studying the reaction of a photon passing through a slit in a plate allows us to understand the principles of quantum mechanics and the behavior of particles at a microscopic level. It also has practical applications in fields such as telecommunications and quantum computing.

4. Can a photon pass through more than one slit?

Yes, a photon can pass through multiple slits, which results in a more complex interference pattern. This phenomenon is known as the double-slit experiment and is a fundamental demonstration of the wave-particle duality of light.

5. What are the implications of the reaction of a photon passing through a slit in a plate?

The reaction of a photon passing through a slit in a plate has significant implications in our understanding of the behavior of matter and energy. It also challenges our classical understanding of the world and opens up new possibilities for technological advancements in fields such as quantum computing and cryptography.

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