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Glossary

Quantum glossary

Wave–particle duality

Quantum objects show wave-like interference when unobserved and arrive as localised particles when detected.

Send electrons one at a time through two slits: each lands as a single dot, yet the dots build up an interference pattern. Find out which slit each went through and the pattern disappears.

See it for yourself

Related terms

  • Interference — Amplitudes for the same outcome adding up (constructive) or cancelling (destructive).
  • Wavefunction — The function ψ(x) giving the amplitude for a particle to be found at each position.