In quantum mechanics, both matter and light can exhibit wave-like and particle-like behavior, depending on the experimental setup and the phenomena being observed. This duality is known as wave-particle duality.
The wave-like behavior of matter, such as electrons, is described by the mathematical formalism of quantum mechanics. According to quantum mechanics, particles like electrons can be described by wave functions, which represent the probability distribution of finding the particle in different states. These wave functions can exhibit interference and diffraction phenomena, similar to waves.
The wave-like behavior of matter is supported by experimental evidence, such as the famous double-slit experiment with electrons. In this experiment, a beam of electrons is passed through a barrier with two slits, and an interference pattern is observed on the detector screen, which is characteristic of wave interference.
On the other hand, light also exhibits wave-like behavior. It can be described by electromagnetic waves, which have properties such as wavelength, frequency, and interference. This wave nature of light is observed in phenomena like diffraction and interference patterns formed by light passing through slits or gratings.
However, it is worth noting that light also exhibits particle-like behavior known as photons. These particles are packets of energy that can be thought of as discrete "quanta" of light. This particle-like behavior is particularly evident in experiments like the photoelectric effect, where light interacts with matter and releases electrons, exhibiting particle-like characteristics.
In summary, both matter and light can exhibit wave-like and particle-like behavior depending on the context and the experiments being conducted. The behavior of particles and waves is described by the mathematical framework of quantum mechanics, which provides a comprehensive understanding of the microscopic world.