In the double-slit experiment with single electrons, the presence of an interference pattern depends on the level of isolation of the electrons from the environment. The interference pattern arises from the wave-like nature of electrons and their ability to interfere with themselves when passing through the two slits.
If the electrons are not completely isolated from the environment, they can interact with external factors such as air molecules, electromagnetic fields, or other particles. These interactions can disturb the coherence of the electron's wavefunction and result in a loss of interference.
When the environment is not adequately controlled, the interference pattern may become less pronounced or even disappear. The electron's wavefunction can decohere due to the interaction with the environment, causing the electron to behave more like a classical particle, and the pattern observed becomes similar to that of individual particles passing through the slits.
Achieving a high degree of isolation and minimizing interactions with the environment is crucial for observing a clear interference pattern in the double-slit experiment with single electrons. Experimental setups often involve carefully designed apparatuses, such as vacuum chambers, to minimize environmental influences and maintain the coherence of the electron's wavefunction.