Dual particle and dual double slit interference

In summary, the question being discussed is whether the "wave-functions" from separate particles interfere and if the Schrodinger equations can predict the interference pattern caused by this interference. This is illustrated through an experimental setup with two double slits, labeled A1 & A2 and B1 & B2, where a single photon and electron are sent through each pair of slits. The conclusion is that interference is possible if the correct wave functions are used and if the particles have a fixed phase relation. However, if the particles are independent, interference effects will not be observed.
  • #1
San K
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In short the question I am trying to answer is:

1. do the "waves-functions" from separate particle interfere?

2. do the Schrodinger equations predict the interference pattern caused by the interference of the "wave functions" of two separate particles?

The above question is illustrated/clarified below in the form of an experimental setup:

we have two double slits placed side by side and a particle for each of the double slits traveling at same time.

lets say we have an experimental setup where we have a single particle (photon/electron) headed for double slits (labelled A1 & A2).

Now we create another double slit setup exactly similar as above. The double slits, in this case, are labelled B1 & B2.

We start bringing the double slits close to each other. close enough that the "wave function" emerging from, say, A2 can interfere with the "wave function" emerging from, say, B1.

Case 1: the single particle headed for double slits A1 and A2 is a photon
the single particle headed for double slits B1 and B2 is also a photon

Case 2: Case 1: the single particle headed for double slits A1 and A2 is a photon
the single particle headed for double slits B1 and B2 is an electron
 
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  • #2
San K said:
1. do the "waves-functions" from separate particle interfere?
Possible, depends on the situation.
San K said:
2. do the Schrodinger equations predict the interference pattern caused by the interference of the "wave functions" of two separate particles?
If you use the correct wave functions: Yes.
San K said:
Case 1: the single particle headed for double slits A1 and A2 is a photon
the single particle headed for double slits B1 and B2 is also a photon
With two independent photon sources you won't see interference effects. But if you can guarantee that the photons have a fixed phase relation then you get interference.
San K said:
Case 2: Case 1: the single particle headed for double slits A1 and A2 is a photon
the single particle headed for double slits B1 and B2 is an electron
Then you will detect one photon and one electron, independent of each other.
 
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Related to Dual particle and dual double slit interference

1. What is dual particle and dual double slit interference?

Dual particle and dual double slit interference is a phenomenon in which particles exhibit wave-like properties and interfere with each other as they pass through two parallel slits. This concept is based on the famous double-slit experiment, which demonstrates the wave-particle duality of matter.

2. How does dual particle and dual double slit interference occur?

Dual particle and dual double slit interference occurs when particles, such as electrons, are fired towards two parallel slits. As they pass through the slits, they diffract and create an interference pattern on a screen behind the slits. This is due to the wave-like nature of particles and the interaction between their wave functions.

3. What is the significance of dual particle and dual double slit interference?

Dual particle and dual double slit interference is significant because it demonstrates the wave-particle duality of matter, which is a fundamental concept in quantum mechanics. It also has practical applications, such as in the development of electronic devices and the study of nanoscale materials.

4. Can dual particle and dual double slit interference be observed with macroscopic objects?

No, dual particle and dual double slit interference can only be observed with microscopic objects, such as particles like electrons. This is because the wavelength of macroscopic objects is too large to exhibit wave-like behavior and interfere with each other.

5. What other experiments demonstrate the wave-particle duality of matter?

In addition to the double-slit experiment, other experiments that demonstrate the wave-particle duality of matter include the photoelectric effect, Compton scattering, and the Davisson-Germer experiment. These experiments all provide evidence for the dual nature of particles and the role of observation in determining their behavior.

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