Using Optical Transforms To Teach Quantum Mechanics

TCE

The Chemical Educator

ISSN: 1430-4171 (electronic version)

Table of Contents

Abstract Volume 9 Issue 1 (2004) pp 12-16

Using Optical Transforms To Teach Quantum Mechanics

Frank Rioux* and Brian J. Johnson

Department of Chemistry, St. John’s University/College of St. Benedict, St. Joseph, MN 56374, frioux@csbsju.edu
Received June 3, 2003. Accepted October 27, 2003.

Published online: 1 January 2004

Abstract. Wave–particle duality, the superposition principle, the uncertainty principle, and single-particle interference are the most fundamental quantum mechanical concepts. The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate that these quantum mechanical principles are illuminated by a study of diffraction patterns created with laser light and a variety of two-dimensional masks.

Key Words: In the Classroom; physical chemistry; quantum mechanics

(*) Corresponding author. (E-mail: frioux@csbsju.edu)

Article in PDF format (268 KB) HTML format

Supporting Materials: