Quantum Physics and Atomic Physics

So, atomic physics can be seen as a specific branch of quantum physics that focuses on the behavior and properties of atoms, which are small objects that are ubiquitous in our daily life. This distinction is important because quantum physics governs the interactions of all things, but it is most evident in the behavior of small objects like atoms. If you are interested in learning more about the relationship between atomic physics and quantum mechanics, the article "Rescuing Quantum Mechanics from Atomic Physics" by EF Taylor (2002) provides a detailed and potentially interesting explanation. In summary, atomic physics is a specific branch of quantum physics that studies the behavior and properties of atoms, which are small objects that are abundant in our world.
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Vectronix
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What’s the difference?
I think Atomic physics gets into specific examples and experiments but I think I’m probably wrong. So, I have to ask, what is atomic physics and how is it different than quantum physics?
 
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Quantum Physics (probably) governs the interaction of all things but is most evident for small objects. Atoms are small objects ubiquitous to us.
 
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Quantum mechanics was originally developed to understand the structure of atoms, hence historically was also called atomic physics. QM has now evolved beyond considering only atoms, so atomic physics should be seen as a subtopic in the field of quantum mechanics.

Not that atoms play a very important role experimentally in testing many aspects of quantum mechanics.
 
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1. What is quantum physics?

Quantum physics is a branch of physics that studies the behavior and interactions of particles at the atomic and subatomic level. It explains how these particles behave and interact with each other, and how they make up the fundamental building blocks of matter.

2. What is the difference between classical physics and quantum physics?

The main difference between classical physics and quantum physics is the scale at which they operate. Classical physics deals with the behavior of larger objects, while quantum physics deals with the behavior of particles at the atomic and subatomic level. Additionally, classical physics follows deterministic laws, while quantum physics follows probabilistic laws.

3. What is the Heisenberg uncertainty principle?

The Heisenberg uncertainty principle is a fundamental principle in quantum physics that states that it is impossible to know the exact position and momentum of a particle at the same time. This is because the act of measuring one of these properties will affect the other, making it impossible to have a precise measurement of both simultaneously.

4. What is an atom?

An atom is the smallest unit of matter that retains the properties of an element. It is made up of a nucleus, which contains protons and neutrons, and electrons that orbit the nucleus. Atoms are the building blocks of all matter and are essential to understanding the behavior of particles at the atomic level.

5. How does quantum physics impact our daily lives?

Quantum physics has many practical applications in our daily lives, such as in electronics, telecommunications, and medical imaging technology. It also plays a crucial role in understanding the behavior of materials and chemical reactions, which has led to advancements in fields such as chemistry and materials science.

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