Yes, the double-slit experiment can indeed be conducted with particles such as protons or neutrons, in addition to electrons. The double-slit experiment is a fundamental experiment in quantum mechanics that demonstrates the wave-particle duality of matter. It shows that particles, including protons and neutrons, can exhibit wave-like properties and interfere with themselves.
In the standard double-slit experiment, a beam of particles is directed toward a barrier with two narrow slits. Beyond the barrier, a screen or a detector is placed to observe the resulting pattern. When a beam of particles passes through the slits, they diffract and form an interference pattern on the screen, similar to what is observed with light waves.
Electrons were initially used in the double-slit experiment because they are lightweight and have a shorter de Broglie wavelength, making their wave-like behavior more noticeable. However, experiments have also been conducted with larger particles such as protons, neutrons, and even entire molecules.
When protons or neutrons are used in the double-slit experiment, they exhibit wave-like behavior and create an interference pattern on the screen. This phenomenon demonstrates that matter particles, just like light waves, can undergo interference and exhibit wave-particle duality.
It's worth noting that the interference pattern becomes less pronounced as the mass and momentum of the particles increase. This is because larger particles have shorter de Broglie wavelengths, and their wave-like behavior becomes less noticeable at macroscopic scales. Nonetheless, experiments have confirmed the wave-like properties of protons, neutrons, and other particles through the double-slit setup, further supporting the fundamental principles of quantum mechanics.