The wave-particle duality does not imply that particles are never truly particles. Instead, it reflects the nature of subatomic particles as described by quantum mechanics, which challenges our classical intuition.
In classical physics, we often think of particles as discrete, localized objects with well-defined properties such as position and velocity. However, at the quantum level, particles like electrons exhibit behaviors that are characteristic of both waves and particles. This doesn't mean that particles cease to be particles or that they were never particles to begin with. It means that the behavior of particles at the quantum level cannot be fully described by classical concepts alone.
The wave-particle duality is a fundamental property of quantum mechanics and is supported by numerous experimental observations. It tells us that particles can exhibit wave-like characteristics, such as interference and diffraction, under certain conditions. Conversely, they can also display particle-like characteristics, such as individual interactions and localized measurements.
The nature of subatomic particles is better understood through the concept of "quantum objects" or "quantum entities" that possess both wave-like and particle-like properties. The behavior of these entities is described mathematically by wave functions, which capture the probabilistic nature of quantum mechanics.
So, while the wave-particle duality challenges our classical notions of what particles are, it doesn't negate their existence as particles. It simply highlights the complex and fascinating nature of the quantum world.