Quantum Systems: Overview Flashcards
What is a quantum state?
A quantum state describes the condition of a quantum system and contains all information about it.
What is superposition in quantum mechanics?
Superposition is the ability of quantum systems to exist in multiple states simultaneously.
What is wavefunction collapse?
Wavefunction collapse is when a superposition collapses into a single state upon measurement.
What is quantum entanglement?
Quantum entanglement is a phenomenon where two or more particles remain connected, influencing each other instantaneously over any distance.
What does wave-particle duality refer to?
Wave-particle duality refers to the concept that particles exhibit both wave-like and particle-like properties.
What is the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle?
It is a principle stating that certain pairs of physical properties, like position and momentum, cannot both be known precisely at the same time.
What is the role of quantum operators?
Quantum operators represent physical quantities like energy and momentum and act on quantum states to give observable results.
What is Hilbert space in quantum mechanics?
Hilbert space is a complex vector space that provides the mathematical framework to describe quantum states and their evolution.
How do quantum systems evolve over time?
Quantum systems evolve according to the Schrödinger equation, which dictates how quantum states change over time.
What is quantum tunneling?
Quantum tunneling is a phenomenon where particles pass through energy barriers that they would not be able to in classical physics.
What event marked the birth of quantum mechanics?
The early 1900s, with contributions from Planck, Einstein, and Bohr, marked the birth of quantum mechanics.
Who developed the Schrödinger equation?
Erwin Schrödinger developed the wave equation that describes how quantum states evolve over time.
What is quantum field theory?
Quantum field theory is an extension of quantum mechanics that unites special relativity and quantum mechanics.
What is quantum electrodynamics (QED)?
Quantum electrodynamics (QED) describes how light (photons) interacts with matter (electrons) and is part of quantum field theory.
What is quantum information theory?
Quantum information theory studies the use of quantum mechanics to process and store information, paving the way for quantum computing.
