In quantum mechanics, particles are described by wave-particle duality, which means they can exhibit both particle-like and wave-like properties depending on the experimental setup and the measurements being performed. This concept was developed to explain the behavior of subatomic particles such as electrons, photons, and other elementary particles.
Particles can exhibit wave-like behavior through phenomena such as diffraction and interference. This means that under certain conditions, particles can exhibit characteristics of waves, such as interference patterns when passing through a double-slit experiment.
On the other hand, particles also exhibit particle-like behavior in terms of their localized position and momentum. When measured, a particle will appear as a distinct, localized entity with a specific position and momentum.
It is important to note that particles do not have inherent wave or particle properties in an absolute sense. Instead, their behavior is described mathematically by wave functions, which are mathematical functions that encode the probabilities of various outcomes when measurements are made. The wave-particle duality arises from the mathematical formalism of quantum mechanics, which allows for describing particles as both waves and particles.
Therefore, particles can exhibit characteristics of both waves and particles, depending on the context and the type of measurement being performed. The wave-particle duality is a fundamental aspect of quantum mechanics and has been extensively verified through experimental observations.