Questions tagged [superposition]
A basic principle of solutions of *linear* differential (often wave) equations, ensuring that the sum ("superposition") of two solutions is automatically a solution as well. Conversely, solutions (amounting to quantum states in quantum mechanics, since the Schrödinger equation is linear) can be represented as a sum of two or more other distinct solutions, and so can be Fourier/eigenstate resolved to enhance mathematical tractability.
5 questions from the last 30 days
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Conservation of energy in superposition of EM waves
Consider the energies of the following two situations.
An EM plane wave $\mathbf{E} = E_0\cos(kz-\omega t) \hat{x}$, $\mathbf{B} = \frac{E_0}{c}\cos(kz-\omega t) \hat{y}$. The energy density is given ...
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Quantum interference
I am new to quantum mechanics. Say we have a double slit experiment and we send in photons. Assuming a 1D scenario for simplicity. The intensity at the camera plane may be described by the following ...
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How does Schrodinger's cat experiment relate to black holes? [closed]
I was told recently that the particles that make up a black hole are in a state of superposition and I'm not sure about it if this is true then how?
I am aware that very little is known about black ...
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Understanding the relationship between wavelength and constructive interference distance in Cox and Forshaw's "clock" model
In Brian Cox and Jeff Forshaw's book The Quantum Universe, they introduce a pedagogical model where quantum particles are described by an array of "clocks" at each point in space. The length ...
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Why is amplitude not conserved in a beam splitter?
If a beam of light with average power $\langle P_\mathrm{in}\rangle$ (and electric field amplitude $E_\mathrm{in}$) is incident on a 50:50 beam splitter, the output is two beams of equal power $\...
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