The scope and scale of the quantum extension refer to the range of phenomena and physical quantities that can be described and understood using the principles of quantum mechanics. Quantum mechanics is a branch of physics that deals with the behavior of matter and energy at the smallest scales, such as atoms, electrons, and photons.
Quantum mechanics introduces a new set of rules and principles that govern the behavior of particles and systems at the quantum level. It allows for phenomena such as particle-wave duality, superposition, entanglement, and quantum tunneling. These concepts have been successfully applied to understand and predict the behavior of particles and systems in various fields, including quantum physics, chemistry, materials science, and even information theory.
The scale of the quantum extension encompasses both the microscopic and macroscopic realms, with quantum effects becoming increasingly significant at smaller scales. While classical physics can adequately describe macroscopic objects and phenomena, quantum mechanics becomes essential when dealing with particles and systems at the atomic and subatomic levels.
In terms of the two numbers that "fence in" the scale, it is challenging to provide specific values because the quantum extension does not have a precise boundary. However, we can consider a general range of scales associated with quantum phenomena. At the lower end, quantum effects become apparent at the atomic and subatomic scale, which typically involves distances on the order of nanometers (10^(-9) meters) or even smaller. At the upper end, quantum effects can also influence larger systems, such as superconductors or quantum computers, where the scale can extend to several micrometers (10^(-6) meters) or even larger.
It's important to note that the scope and understanding of the quantum extension continue to evolve as research progresses, and new discoveries are made. The boundaries and magnitudes of the scale may be refined or expanded as our knowledge advances in the field of quantum mechanics.