Quantum Mechanics (QM) is a branch of physics that deals with the behavior and properties of matter and energy at the atomic and subatomic levels. It is a fundamental theory that describes the physics of very small particles, such as electrons, protons, and photons, as well as their interactions.
In QM, matter and energy are treated as waves or particles, depending on how they are observed. It incorporates the principles of wave-particle duality, superposition, and uncertainty, which challenge the classical notion of determinism. According to QM, the properties of particles are not determined with certainty until they are measured or observed, and their behavior is governed by probabilities.
The mathematical framework of QM involves wavefunctions, which describe the probabilistic nature of particles and their spatial distribution. The Schrödinger equation is the foundational equation of QM, providing a way to calculate the wavefunctions and predict the possible outcomes of measurements.
QM has led to various technological advancements, such as the development of lasers, transistors, and atomic clocks. It also has widespread applications in areas like chemistry, material science, and quantum computing. The principles of QM have been tested and verified through numerous experiments, and it stands as one of the most successful and accurate theories in physics.
