Wave-Particle Duality: Light and Electrons

To complement our week investigating quantum mechanics, we'll start with a video and end with a simulation in a manner similar to last week. Though, the video is much shorter (just over 53 min) and the simulation doesn't require Java.

Steps:

Mo' background, first!

Write a short summary (at least 1/2-page).

Discuss 3 things from the video you found most interesting or to be most important.

Discuss 2 things you didn't quite understand, and describe what information you think you would need to better understand them.

Pose 1 question regarding quantum mechanics.

Double Slit

Now, we use a simulation for the double-slit experiment. The simulation shoots one electron at a time at an adjustable rate (1 per

second, 3 per second, 6 per second).

Determine the problems:

What will be the pattern observed on the screen when 1 electron is fired per second?

How will this pattern change when 3 electrons are fired per second? When 6 are fired per second?

Develop hypotheses.

Test each of your hypotheses.

Draw a conclusion based on your observations. Does the result fit with what you've read and watched?