Understanding Spin 1/2 and Other Spin Values Explained

In summary, spins in quantum mechanics can be visualized using a Mobius strip, where multiple revolutions are needed to return to the same starting point depending on the twist of the strip. This concept is related to half-integer and integer spins, and understanding it requires knowledge of quantum mechanics.
  • #1
Tonywryip
7
0
What's a pin 1/2? How can one spin 2 whole revolution to get to the same side? I don't get it.
How about spin 0,1,or 2. What do those mean?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
If you just need a very simple visualization, picture a Mobius strip. You need to go two revolutions around it to end up where you started from. It works like that on many levels.

Notice that you can glue the strip with half-twist, full twist, twist-and-a-half, etc. Just like with spins, a strip with integer twist will get you back to the same exact spot after a 360° rotation. Half-integer will require a 720° turn.

But if you want to understand where all of this comes from and how it works, you need Quantum Mechanics, and I'm guessing, you don't have much of a background in that.
 

Related to Understanding Spin 1/2 and Other Spin Values Explained

What is spin in quantum mechanics?

Spin in quantum mechanics is a fundamental property of particles, which is measured in units of 1/2 or multiples of 1/2. It describes the intrinsic angular momentum of a particle and is used to classify particles into different groups.

What is the difference between spin 1/2 and other spin values?

The main difference between spin 1/2 and other spin values is the number of possible orientations a particle can have. Spin 1/2 particles, such as electrons, can have two possible orientations: up or down. Other spin values, such as spin 1, can have multiple orientations, making them more complex to understand.

How is spin measured and observed in experiments?

Spin is typically measured using special equipment, such as a Stern-Gerlach apparatus, which can detect the orientation of a particle's spin. It can also be observed indirectly through the behavior of particles in experiments, such as in the double-slit experiment.

What are some real-world applications of understanding spin values?

Understanding spin values is crucial in many areas of physics, including quantum computing, nuclear magnetic resonance imaging, and particle physics. It also plays a significant role in the development of new technologies, such as spintronics.

Can particles with different spin values interact with each other?

Yes, particles with different spin values can interact with each other. However, the strength of this interaction depends on the particles' spin values and their other properties. Particles with the same spin value tend to interact more strongly than particles with different spin values.

Similar threads

I Why do all fermions have the same spin 1/2?
    • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
7
Views
623
I Spin operator and spin quantum number give different values, why?
    • Quantum Physics
Replies
12
Views
1K
B What does it mean that a spin 1/2 particle needs two full rotations?
    • Quantum Physics
Replies
6
Views
2K
I Gyroscopic precession of a spin-stabilized bullet
    • Classical Physics
Replies
10
Views
1K
I Spin expectation value for one particle vs actual measurement
    • Quantum Physics
Replies
4
Views
946
A Spin group for the Weyl equation
    • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
1
Views
758
I Question about Stern-Gerlach experiment
    • Quantum Physics
Replies
12
Views
2K
Probability of Negative Value in Sz 1/2 Spin System w/ Lambda 1 & 2
    • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
832
I Can I find a particle in two states simultaneously?
    • Quantum Physics
Replies
2
Views
982
A Another thought experiment about spin 1/2
    • Quantum Physics
Replies
15
Views
1K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top