Quantum physics, also known as quantum mechanics, is governed by a set of fundamental laws and principles that describe the behavior of particles and their interactions. Here are some of the main laws of quantum physics:
Superposition: According to the principle of superposition, a quantum system can exist in multiple states simultaneously. These states are represented by a combination or superposition of possible outcomes, and the system remains in this superposition until a measurement is made.
Wave-particle Duality: Quantum physics exhibits wave-particle duality, meaning that particles, such as electrons and photons, can exhibit both wave-like and particle-like behavior. This duality is encapsulated by the wave function, which describes the probability distribution of a particle's properties, such as position or momentum.
Uncertainty Principle: The Heisenberg uncertainty principle states that certain pairs of physical properties, such as position and momentum, cannot be precisely known simultaneously. There is an inherent limit to the precision with which these properties can be measured, and the more accurately one property is determined, the less precisely the other can be known.
Measurement and Collapse: Measurement in quantum physics causes the system to undergo a sudden and discontinuous change, known as the collapse of the wave function. The superposition of possible states collapses into a single observed state, corresponding to the outcome of the measurement.
Quantum Entanglement: Quantum entanglement refers to a phenomenon where two or more particles become correlated in such a way that their properties are interdependent, regardless of the distance between them. Changes made to one particle can instantaneously affect the other, even if they are far apart. This non-local correlation is a fundamental feature of quantum physics.
Quantum Tunneling: Quantum tunneling is the phenomenon where a particle can pass through a potential energy barrier even when its energy is less than the barrier height. It allows particles to "tunnel" through classically forbidden regions, which has important implications for processes such as radioactive decay and electron transport.
These laws and principles provide the foundation for understanding the behavior of particles at the quantum scale. They have been experimentally verified and are applied in various fields, including particle physics, condensed matter physics, and quantum information science.