In quantum mechanics, particles are described by wave functions, which are mathematical functions that contain information about the probabilities of various outcomes when the particle is measured. The wave function evolves according to the Schrödinger equation, which describes the time evolution of quantum systems.
When a particle is not interacting with its surroundings or being measured, it evolves according to this wave function. The wave function describes the probability distribution of the particle's position, momentum, and other observable properties. This probability distribution can exhibit wave-like behavior, such as interference and diffraction patterns, similar to what is observed with classical waves like sound waves or water waves.
However, it is important to note that particles themselves do not become waves in the classical sense. Rather, the wave function represents the probability distribution of the particle's properties. The behavior of the wave function is governed by the principles of quantum mechanics and is not directly analogous to the behavior of classical waves.
When a measurement or interaction occurs, the wave function "collapses" to a specific value, corresponding to the observed outcome. This collapse is described by the process of wave function collapse or measurement in quantum mechanics. At that point, the particle is no longer in a superposition of states but exists in a definite state.
In summary, particles in quantum mechanics are described by wave functions, which represent the probabilities of different outcomes. These wave functions can exhibit wave-like behavior, but particles themselves do not become classical waves. The wave function describes the distribution of possible states, and when a measurement occurs, the wave function collapses to a specific value corresponding to the observed outcome.