De Broglie Wavelength Equation:
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The De Broglie wavelength equation describes the wave nature of matter, stating that any particle with momentum has an associated wavelength. This fundamental concept in quantum mechanics bridges the gap between classical and quantum physics.
The calculator uses the De Broglie wavelength equation:
Where:
Explanation: The equation shows that the wavelength of a particle is inversely proportional to its momentum, with Planck's constant as the proportionality factor.
Details: Calculating de Broglie wavelengths is essential for understanding quantum phenomena, electron microscopy, and the wave-particle duality of matter at atomic and subatomic scales.
Tips: Enter the momentum value in kg m/s. The value must be greater than zero to calculate a valid wavelength.
Q1: What is the significance of the de Broglie wavelength?
A: It demonstrates that all matter exhibits wave-like properties, which is fundamental to quantum mechanics and explains phenomena like electron diffraction.
Q2: For which particles is this equation applicable?
A: The equation applies to all particles with mass (electrons, protons, atoms) and even larger objects, though the wavelength becomes negligible for macroscopic objects.
Q3: How does temperature affect de Broglie wavelength?
A: Higher temperature typically means higher kinetic energy and momentum, resulting in shorter wavelengths for particles.
Q4: What are typical de Broglie wavelength values?
A: For electrons at room temperature: ~10⁻⁹ m; for a baseball at 100 km/h: ~10⁻³⁴ m (completely negligible).
Q5: How is this used in electron microscopy?
A: Electron microscopes use the short wavelengths of accelerated electrons to achieve much higher resolution than optical microscopes.