Quantum Wave Interference

Quantum mechanics dictates that both light and matter also exhibit the properties of a wave. This is called the wave-particle duality, a concept that has been proven by many great physicists. It can be difficult to understand, however, which is why a simulation can prove very helpful.

Quantum Wave Interference is a Java-based program that lets you run some interesting simulations which demonstrate the concept of wave-particle duality and can be an invaluable teaching tool.

Many of you are probably familiar with this experiment, which demonstrates how photons or particles of mater exhibit the properties of waves when fired at a screen through a pair of parallel slits.

The interference of these photons and particles causes a distinct pattern to be visible on the screen, which would only occur if they exhibited wave-like properties. Having a physicist around to explain everything would certainly help, but this simulation allows you to visualize the experiment.

There are multiple simulations that can be run with this utility. Aside from recreating the double-slit experiment, you can also fire single particles at a screen, through various types of barriers.

You can see how the light from two lasers, situated next to each other, will interfere when fired at a screen. Here’s a hint: you will only notice interference when both sourced emit light at the same wavelength.

From the Options menu, you can increase or decrease the resolution of the simulation, but this can sometimes break the experiments. We’ve found that only the High Intensity simulation can be run successfully at higher resolutions.

Quantum Wave Interference is a useful teaching tool that makes it easier to explain to students how light and particles of matter can behave like waves. It allows you to recreate the double-slit experiment and perform a couple of other interesting simulations.