Quantum Wave Interference - Quantum Mechanics | Electrons | Photons - PhET Interactive Simulations
When do photons, electrons, and atoms behave like particles and when do they behave like waves? Watch waves spread out and interfere as they pass through a double slit, then get detected on a screen as tiny dots. Use quantum detectors to explore how measurements change the waves and the patterns they produce on the screen.
Overview
Added
March 18, 2026
Subject & domain
physics · quantum-mechanics
Grade range
Grade 9 (Freshman)–Grade 12 (Senior)
Page kind
Tool
Introduction
Quantum Wave Interference Simulation Overview
- Core Subject: Quantum mechanics, specifically the wave-particle duality of electrons, photons, neutrons, and helium atoms.
- Key Concept: Visualization of particles as wave packets that undergo collapse upon detection.
- Experimental Focus: The double-slit experiment and its role in demonstrating the wave-like behavior of matter and light.
- Learning Objectives:
- Observe wave behavior between the slit and the screen.
- Analyze the impact of detectors on wave functions and interference patterns.
- Examine how variables like mass, speed, and wavelength alter interference patterns.
- Understand the necessity of identical wavelengths for coherent light source interference.
- Explore the vast range of size scales applicable to quantum interference.
- Technical Requirements: Requires Java; compatible with PC, Mac, and Linux systems.
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