What Happens to the de Broglie Wavelength as Mass Approaches Infinity?

In summary, the de Broglie wavelength equation states that as the mass approaches infinity, the wavelength approaches 0. This suggests that particles with larger mass do not exhibit wavelike properties and can be treated as point particles, allowing for the application of classical Newtonian physics. However, it should be noted that the de Broglie wavelength assumes that all particles exist as waves, regardless of their mass.
  • #1
forty
135
0
If, in the expression for the de Broglie wavelength, we let m -> infinity, do we get the classical result for matter?

de Broglie wavelength = h/mv

so as m goes to infinity the de Broglie wavelength goes to 0. So does this mean that particles with larger mass don't display wavelike properties and therefore can be treated as a point particle which means we can apply classical Newtonian physics?
 
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  • #2
The de Broglie wavelength assumes that ALL particles exist as a wave with wavelength h/mv
 
  • #3
Yeah I understand that but if their wavelength is small enough they don't display (a cricket ball doesn't display wave like properties) wave like properties?
 

Related to What Happens to the de Broglie Wavelength as Mass Approaches Infinity?

What is the De Broglie wavelength?

The De Broglie wavelength is a concept in quantum mechanics that describes the wavelength of a particle, such as an electron, based on its momentum. It was first proposed by French physicist Louis de Broglie in 1924.

How is the De Broglie wavelength calculated?

The De Broglie wavelength is calculated using the equation λ = h/mv, where λ is the wavelength, h is Planck's constant, m is the mass of the particle, and v is the velocity of the particle. This equation is derived from the de Broglie hypothesis, which states that all matter exhibits wave-like properties.

What is the significance of the De Broglie wavelength?

The De Broglie wavelength is significant because it shows the wave-particle duality of matter. It helps explain why particles, such as electrons, can behave as both waves and particles. It also plays a role in the study of quantum mechanics and the behavior of subatomic particles.

How does the De Broglie wavelength relate to the uncertainty principle?

The De Broglie wavelength is related to the uncertainty principle, which states that the position and momentum of a particle cannot be known simultaneously. A smaller De Broglie wavelength corresponds to a larger uncertainty in momentum, and vice versa. This principle is a fundamental concept in quantum mechanics.

Can the De Broglie wavelength be observed in everyday objects?

No, the De Broglie wavelength is only significant for very small particles, such as electrons and other subatomic particles. The wavelength of everyday objects, such as a baseball, is extremely small and therefore cannot be observed. The De Broglie wavelength is only observable in experiments that involve particles at the atomic or subatomic level.

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