Relation between mass and wave function

In summary, there is no direct mathematical relationship between the mass of a body and the intensity of the wave it exhibits. The de Broglie wavelength, which is determined by the body's mass and velocity, may be of interest in studying wave properties. However, the wave function cannot be directly observed and its physical reality is still debated in quantum mechanics. In experiments, the norm squared of the wave function is used to calculate probabilities, and quantum effects become more significant at smaller momentums. The intensity of a wave is influenced by the number of particles involved, but not directly by the mass of the body.
  • #1
nil1996
301
7
We know that electrons are nearly massless so their wave funtion is quite easily detectable.So is there any mathematical relation between the mass of the body and the intensity of the wave it exhibits?

thanks
 
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  • #2
Hi.

de Broglie wavelength [itex]\lambda=\frac{h}{p}=\frac{h}{mv}[/itex] ,where h is Planck's constant, m is mass of particle and v is velocity, may be of your interest. In the scale of order [itex]\lambda[/itex] you will observe wave properties.
 
  • #3
sweet springs said:
Hi.

de Broglie wavelength [itex]\lambda=\frac{h}{p}=\frac{h}{mv}[/itex] ,where h is Planck's constant, m is mass of particle and v is velocity, may be of your interest. In the scale of order [itex]\lambda[/itex] you will observe wave properties.
but i want a relationship between mass and intensity of wave exhibited by it.
 
  • #4
nil1996 said:
We know that electrons are nearly massless so their wave funtion is quite easily detectable.

It is not correct.We don't detect wave functions.we can't observe them,neither directly nor indirectly.Some interpretations of QM even deny its physical reality!
We only can test the predictions of QM.The norm squared of the wave function gives the probability for a quantity to have a certain value and experimenters test those probabilities by measuring ensemble averages of that quantity.

The only point is that,Quantum effects become important only when the typical momentums get smaller and smaller.
 
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  • #5
Hi.

One electron double slit experiment by Akira Tonomura shows that intensity of the wave depends on numbers of particles involved. Momentum relates wavelength. Numbers relates intensity. However mass does not have direct relationship to wave.
 
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  • #6
thanx

thanks for the replies
 

FAQ: Relation between mass and wave function

What is the relation between mass and wave function?

The wave function, represented by the symbol Ψ, is a mathematical function that describes the behavior of a particle in quantum mechanics. It is related to the mass of the particle through the Schrödinger equation, which is a fundamental equation in quantum mechanics.

How does mass affect the wave function of a particle?

The mass of a particle affects the wavelength and momentum of its wave function. A higher mass results in a shorter wavelength and lower momentum, while a lower mass results in a longer wavelength and higher momentum.

What is the significance of the mass in the wave function?

The mass of a particle is an important factor in determining its behavior and properties, as it directly affects the characteristics of its wave function. In quantum mechanics, the mass of a particle is considered a fundamental property and is used in various equations and calculations.

Is there a relationship between the mass of a particle and its probability distribution?

Yes, the mass of a particle is directly related to its probability distribution, which describes the likelihood of finding the particle at a specific position in space. Heavier particles have a narrower probability distribution, while lighter particles have a broader distribution.

Can the wave function be used to determine the mass of a particle?

No, the wave function alone cannot determine the mass of a particle. Other factors such as energy, momentum, and spin must also be taken into account. Additionally, the wave function is a mathematical construct and does not directly correspond to physical quantities such as mass.

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