Ever wondered how tiny particles behave differently than big objects?
Quantum mechanics
Ever wondered how tiny particles behave differently than big objects?
Imagine you're trying to predict the path of a ball thrown in the air. You can easily guess where it will land based on the force you apply and its starting position.
In quantum mechanics, particles like electrons don't follow predictable paths like the ball. Instead, they exist in a cloud of possibilities until they're measured.
Example
If you tried to measure the exact position and speed of an electron at the same time, you'd find it impossible, just like trying to pinpoint the ball's exact location and speed simultaneously.
Remember this
The principle of superposition in quantum mechanics explains why particles can exist in multiple states at once until observed.
Text adapted from Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Related concepts
Schrödinger's cat
Schrödinger's cat thought experiment illustrates quantum superposition
Quantum field theory
Did you know that tiny particles behave differently than we expect?
Quantum mind
Can quantum computers solve puzzles faster than our brains?
Fuzzy concept
Did you know zero wasn't always zero?
Timeline of condensed matter physics
Did you know electricity flows without resistance?
History of science
How can a particle be in two places at once?
Swipe through 100 ML concepts daily
Open Pocket Polymath