Associate Professor Martin Kamela discussed possible interpretations of quantum mechanics beyond waves and particles.
Associate Professor of Physics Martin Kamela introduced the weirdness of quantum mechanics to the Physics Tea gathering today.
Ordinary objects, or “particles,” move in ways that are straightforward to predict based on Newton’s laws of motion. Waves, like sound and light, exhibit very different behaviors like refraction and diffraction. Over the past 25 years, several experiments have shown that electrons, atoms, and even some organic molecules, exhibit behaviors similar to waves. Some of the largest open questions in the field of quantum mechanics are, as they have been for a century, about understanding the phenomena and math models that describe them: are small objects really both particle-like and wave-like? are we truly observing all quantum behaviors, or are we limited to one of many experiences in a much larger multiverse of possibilities?
Hosted weekly by the Department of Physics, Physics Tea promises engaging discussions, thought-provoking ideas and a delightful spread of refreshments. Open to all students, faculty and staff, this gathering is the perfect opportunity to connect with fellow physics aficionados in a relaxed and informal setting.
Date: every Wednesday
Time: 3:20 – 4 p.m.
Location: Innovation Quad, third floor lounge