Author: Tru Physics
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Chapter 20: The Measurement Problem
20.1 Introduction to the Measurement Problem The measurement problem is a fundamental issue in quantum mechanics that arises from the apparent contradiction between the deterministic evolution of a quantum system’s wavefunction and the seemingly random outcomes observed during a measurement. The measurement problem raises questions about the interpretation of quantum mechanics and the role of…
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Chapter 19: The Harmonic Oscillator
19.1 Introduction to the Harmonic Oscillator The harmonic oscillator is a fundamental model in physics that describes the behavior of a system that, when displaced from its equilibrium position, experiences a restoring force proportional to the displacement. In quantum mechanics, the harmonic oscillator is a key model used to understand a variety of physical systems,…
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Chapter 18: Particle in a Box
18.1 Introduction to Particle in a Box The particle in a box is a simplified model in quantum mechanics that helps to understand the behavior of a quantum particle confined in a one-dimensional, infinitely deep potential well. This model is important because it provides an elementary example of bound states, quantization of energy levels, and…
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Chapter 17: Introduction to Quantum Mechanics
17.1 Quantum Mechanics Overview Quantum mechanics is the branch of physics that deals with the behavior of particles at the atomic and subatomic levels. It emerged in the early 20th century as a response to the limitations of classical mechanics and electromagnetism, which failed to describe the observed behavior of particles at the microscopic scale.…
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Chapter 16: The Uncertainty Principle
16.1 Introduction The uncertainty principle is a fundamental concept in quantum mechanics that places limits on the precision with which certain pairs of physical properties can be simultaneously known. It was first formulated by Werner Heisenberg in 1927 and is crucial for understanding the behavior of particles at the quantum level. This chapter will discuss…
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Chapter 15: The Bohr Model of the Atom
15.1 Introduction The Bohr model, proposed by Niels Bohr in 1913, was one of the earliest attempts to explain the behavior of electrons in atoms. Though it is now considered a simplified model, it played a significant role in the development of modern atomic theory and quantum mechanics. This chapter will discuss the principles of…
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Chapter 14: Electron Waves
14.1 Introduction to Electron Waves In the early 20th century, it was discovered that not only light exhibits both wave-like and particle-like properties, but also matter, such as electrons, shows dual behavior. This chapter will explore the concept of electron waves and their importance in understanding the quantum nature of particles. 14.2 de Broglie Hypothesis…
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Chapter 13: Scattered Photons and Compton Scattering
13.1 Introduction to Compton Scattering Compton scattering is a phenomenon that occurs when an incident photon interacts with a free or weakly bound electron, resulting in a decrease in the energy (increase in the wavelength) of the scattered photon. This interaction demonstrates both the wave-like and particle-like nature of electromagnetic radiation, as it can be…
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Chapter 12: Emitted Photons: X-Ray Production
12.1 Introduction to X-Ray Production X-rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation with wavelengths ranging from about 0.01 nm to 10 nm. They have numerous applications in medical imaging, material analysis, and security scanning. In this chapter, we will discuss the process of x-ray production, which involves the interaction between high-energy electrons and matter. 12.2…
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Chapter 11: Absorbed Photons and the Photoelectric Effect
11.1 Introduction to the Photoelectric Effect The photoelectric effect is a phenomenon where light shining on a material causes the emission of electrons. This effect played a crucial role in the development of quantum mechanics, as it provided evidence for the particle-like nature of light and led to the concept of photons as discrete packets…