Quantum mechanics undermined Newtonian physics by introducing a new framework for understanding the behavior of particles and systems at the microscopic scale. It challenged several fundamental concepts of classical physics and provided a more accurate description of physical phenomena.
Here are some key aspects in which quantum mechanics undermined Newtonian physics:
Particle-Wave Duality: Quantum mechanics introduced the concept of wave-particle duality, which states that particles, such as electrons or photons, can exhibit both particle-like and wave-like properties. This contradicted the classical notion that particles are strictly localized entities with definite positions and velocities.
Uncertainty Principle: The uncertainty principle, formulated by Werner Heisenberg, is a fundamental principle in quantum mechanics. It states that there are inherent limitations to simultaneously measuring certain pairs of physical properties, such as position and momentum, with arbitrary precision. This uncertainty challenges the determinism and predictability of classical physics, where precise values of properties were assumed.
Quantization of Energy: Quantum mechanics introduced the idea that energy is quantized, meaning it can only exist in discrete amounts or levels. This was in contrast to classical physics, which allowed for continuous energy values. The quantization of energy was crucial for explaining phenomena such as the discrete energy levels in atoms and the behavior of electromagnetic radiation.
Wavefunction and Probability: Quantum mechanics introduced the wavefunction, a mathematical description that assigns a probability amplitude to different states of a system. The square of the wavefunction provides the probability distribution for finding a particle in a particular state. This probabilistic interpretation challenged the deterministic nature of classical mechanics, where the future behavior of a system could be precisely determined given its initial conditions.
Superposition and Entanglement: Quantum mechanics allows for the existence of superposition, where particles can exist in multiple states simultaneously. Additionally, quantum entanglement occurs when particles become correlated in such a way that the state of one particle cannot be described independently of the others, even when separated by large distances. These phenomena have no classical analog and introduced new complexities in understanding the behavior of quantum systems.
Overall, quantum mechanics revolutionized our understanding of the microscopic world by introducing probabilistic behavior, wave-particle duality, and challenging the deterministic principles of classical physics. While Newtonian physics remains highly accurate and useful for describing macroscopic objects, quantum mechanics provides a more comprehensive framework for understanding the behavior of particles and systems at the quantum level.