In quantum mechanics, the behavior of particles, such as photons, is described by wave functions. The wave function provides information about the probability distribution of finding a particle in a particular state, including its position, momentum, and energy.
When visualizing the behavior of a quantum mechanical wave, it is important to understand that the wave function represents the probability amplitude associated with the particle's state. The square of the wave function, known as the probability density, gives the probability of finding the particle in a particular region.
Before and after the peak of a quantum mechanical wave, the wave function can take various values, including positive, negative, or zero. The specific values depend on the particular wave function and the system under consideration.
The energy state or nature of the wave is not solely determined by its amplitude at a given point in space. Instead, it is associated with the entire wave function and its associated quantum numbers. These quantum numbers determine the energy levels and allowed states of the system.
It is worth noting that the interpretation and visualization of quantum mechanical phenomena can be challenging since they often go beyond our everyday experience and classical intuition. Quantum mechanics is a mathematical framework that provides a powerful and accurate description of microscopic particles but may not always have a direct analog in terms of classical visualizations or intuitive explanations.