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Theoretical intricacies of the single-slit, the double-slit, and related experiments in quantum mechanics

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Abstract

The purpose of this work is to carry out a systematic, detailed analytical study, together with the direct interpretations, as they follow from the analytical expressions obtained, of three basic “experiments” which have been classical examples in our understanding of quantum mechanics. The experiments considered are: the single- and double-slit (-hole) experiments, and the final one, which, in particular, deals with the situation where a particle is “reflected off” the detection screen in the single-slit experiment. Special emphasis is put on pointing out some purely quantum mechanical results, which follow from the analytical expressions, as well as on making a comparison with classical physics. Needless to say, the analysis of such experiments has been extremely important in laying the foundations of quantum physics.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of National Defence, Royal Military College of Canada, K7K 5L0, Kingston, Ontario, Canada

    Edward B. Manoukian

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  1. Edward B. Manoukian
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Work supported by the Department of National Defence Award under CRAD No. 3610-637:F4122.

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Manoukian, E.B. Theoretical intricacies of the single-slit, the double-slit, and related experiments in quantum mechanics. Found Phys 19, 479–504 (1989). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00734655

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00734655

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