Quantum Mechanics and Classical Mechanics: Two Pillars of Modern Physics

Physics is the study of the laws governing the world we live in. Among these, classical mechanics and quantum mechanics are two important theories that explain different realms.

1. Differences in Basic Concepts

Classical mechanics is based on Newton's laws of motion and explains most movements we experience in daily life.

For example, the movement of riding a bicycle up or down a hill can be explained by classical mechanics.

On the other hand, quantum mechanics explains the very small world. It attempts to understand the behavior of tiny particles such as atoms and electrons. Quantum mechanics can explain phenomena that cannot be explained by classical mechanics.

For example, quantum mechanics can explain how electrons move within an atom.

2. Wave-Particle Duality

In classical mechanics, an object is considered to have only particle properties. However, in quantum mechanics, matter is considered to have both particle and wave properties simultaneously. This is called wave-particle duality.

For example, light is a particle in classical mechanics, but it can behave like a wave in quantum mechanics. The pattern created when light passes through two small slits is an example of light behaving as a wave.

This pattern cannot be explained by classical mechanics.

3. The Uncertainty Principle

The uncertainty principle is one of the important concepts in quantum mechanics. This principle means that it is impossible to know both the position and velocity of a particle accurately at the same time. In classical mechanics, we can accurately know the position and velocity of a ball, but in quantum mechanics, we cannot accurately know both the position and velocity of an electron simultaneously.

For example, if we measure the position of an electron, we cannot know its velocity at that moment.

This is a characteristic of quantum mechanics that differs from classical mechanics.

4. Quantum Entanglement

Quantum entanglement is a phenomenon where two or more particles share a state, even when they are far apart. This means that if one particle changes, the other particle also changes instantly. This phenomenon cannot be explained by classical mechanics.

For example, if the state of one of a pair of entangled electrons is measured, the state of the other is instantly determined.

5. Quantum Tunneling Effect

Quantum tunneling is a phenomenon where a particle passes through a barrier even if it lacks sufficient energy. This is impossible in classical mechanics, but in quantum mechanics, there is a probability that a particle will pass through the barrier.

For example, quantum tunneling is the phenomenon where an electron can overcome an energy barrier to move charge within a metal. This is a phenomenon that cannot be explained by classical mechanics.

Conclusion

I hope you now have a better understanding of the differences between classical mechanics and quantum mechanics. These two theories of physics each play their own role and help us understand various natural phenomena.