Quantum physics is a fundamental theory in physics that describes nature at the smallest scales of energy levels of atoms and subatomic particles. It explains the behavior of particles that are too small to be seen with the naked eye.
Key Concepts
- Wave-Particle Duality: Particles such as electrons can exhibit both wave-like and particle-like properties.
- Uncertainty Principle: It states that certain pairs of physical properties, like position and momentum, cannot be simultaneously known to precise degrees.
- Quantum Superposition: A quantum system can exist in multiple states at the same time until it is measured.
Historical Figures
- Niels Bohr: Proposed the Bohr model of the atom.
- Erwin Schrödinger: Developed the Schrödinger equation, which describes quantum systems.
- Wolfgang Pauli: Formulated the Pauli exclusion principle.
Applications
Quantum physics has numerous applications in technology and science, including:
- Quantum Computing: A new form of computing that uses quantum bits or qubits.
- Quantum Cryptography: A method of secure communication that uses quantum mechanics.
- MRI: Magnetic Resonance Imaging, which relies on principles of quantum physics.
Quantum Entanglement
For more information on quantum physics, you can visit our Quantum Physics Resources.