Electrons, like light, can exhibit wave-particle duality and show interference patterns in a double-slit experiment. In the context of the double-slit experiment, when electrons are sent through a barrier with two slits, they can interfere with themselves and create an interference pattern on a detection screen.
Each electron is associated with a quantum mechanical wavefunction that describes its probability distribution. When electrons are sent through the double-slit setup, their wavefunctions spread out and pass through both slits simultaneously, forming two coherent wavefronts. These wavefronts then interact and interfere with each other as they propagate towards the detection screen.
The interference of electron waves leads to the formation of alternating regions of constructive and destructive interference on the screen, resulting in an interference pattern similar to the one observed in the classic double-slit experiment with light. Over many electron detections, the pattern emerges as a series of bright and dark fringes.
It is important to note that when individual electrons are detected on the screen, they appear as localized particles. However, the statistical distribution of many electrons reveals the interference pattern characteristic of wave behavior.
The double-slit experiment with electrons has been performed numerous times and has provided strong evidence for the wave-particle duality of matter. It demonstrates that electrons, despite being particles, can exhibit wave-like behavior and interfere with themselves, leading to observable interference patterns.