< Back
quantum mechanics
Definition
Quantum mechanics is a branch of physics that deals with the behaviour of matter and energy at the atomic and subatomic levels. It is a very different way of thinking about the world than classical physics, which is the physics that we use to describe the everyday world.
One of the most important things to understand about quantum mechanics is that it is probabilistic. This means that we cannot predict with certainty what will happen in a quantum system. We can only calculate the probability of different outcomes.
Another important thing to understand about quantum mechanics is that it is wave-particle duality. This means that objects at the atomic and subatomic levels can behave like both waves and particles.
Quantum mechanics is a very complex subject, but it is also a very important one. It is the foundation of modern physics and it is used to explain a wide range of phenomena, from the behaviour of atoms to the workings of lasers and transistors.
How can the word be used?
Quantum mechanics is a probabilistic theory, meaning that it cannot predict the exact behaviour of individual particles, but it can only predict the probability of different outcomes.
Different forms of the word
Noun: quantum mechanics (plural: quantum mechanics).
- a physical theory that describes the behaviour of matter and energy at the atomic and subatomic level.
Adjective: quantum.
- relating to quantum mechanics.
Verb: to quantize.
- to describe something in terms of quantum mechanics.
Etymology
The word "quantum mechanics" comes from the Latin word "quantus" (how much) and the Greek word "mechanica" (of mechanics).
The word "quantum mechanics" was first used in English in the early 20th century. It was used to refer to the new branch of physics that was developing at the time to explain the behavior of matter and energy at the atomic and subatomic level.
Question
What is quantum mechanics?