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De Broglie Equation:
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The De Broglie wavelength is a concept in quantum mechanics that proposes all matter exhibits wave-like properties. It relates a particle's wavelength to its momentum, demonstrating the wave-particle duality of matter.
The calculator uses the De Broglie 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: The De Broglie hypothesis was fundamental in the development of quantum mechanics, explaining phenomena like electron diffraction and providing the theoretical basis for electron microscopes.
Tips: Enter the momentum of the particle in kg m/s. The value must be greater than zero. The calculator will compute the corresponding wavelength using Planck's constant.
Q1: What is wave-particle duality?
A: Wave-particle duality is the concept that every particle or quantum entity may be described as either a particle or a wave, exhibiting properties of both.
Q2: Why is the wavelength significant for small particles?
A: For microscopic particles like electrons, the wavelength becomes comparable to atomic dimensions, making wave effects observable in experiments.
Q3: How is momentum calculated?
A: Momentum (p) is calculated as mass × velocity (p = mv). For relativistic particles, the relativistic momentum formula should be used.
Q4: What are practical applications of De Broglie's hypothesis?
A: Electron microscopy, neutron diffraction studies, and various quantum mechanical applications rely on the wave nature of particles.
Q5: Does large everyday objects have a De Broglie wavelength?
A: Yes, but it's extremely small (undetectable) due to their large mass and momentum. For example, a 1kg object moving at 1m/s has a wavelength of about 6.626 × 10⁻³⁴ m.