In the electron double slit experiment, electrons of the same kinetic energy are passed through two narrow slits, and are detected on a screen behind. (a) With both holes open, describe the pattern that emerges on the screen and qualitatively describe how you would use the concept of the probability amplitude ψ to explain this pattern. (b) If a detector is placed between the double slits and the screen and detects which hole each electron passes through, describe the pattern seen on the screen and qualitatively explain the pattern using the concept of ψ. Note: The Copenhagen interpretation of quantum mechanics is based on Bohr’s principle of the complementarity of the wave and particle descriptions and on Heisenberg’s uncertainty principle. Incorporate these ideas into your explanations.
In the electron double slit experiment, electrons of the same kinetic energy are
passed through two narrow slits, and are detected on a screen behind.
(a) With both holes open, describe the pattern that emerges on the screen and qualitatively
describe how you would use the concept of the probability amplitude ψ to explain this
pattern.
(b) If a detector is placed between the double slits and the screen and detects which hole
each electron passes through, describe the pattern seen on the screen and qualitatively
explain the pattern using the concept of ψ.
Note: The Copenhagen interpretation of
the complementarity of the wave and particle descriptions and on Heisenberg’s uncertainty
principle. Incorporate these ideas into your explanations.
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