Interference patterns result from superposition from "summary" of The Principles of Quantum Mechanics by P. A. M. Dirac
When two waves are superposed, the resulting wave is the sum of the displacements due to the individual waves. The principle of superposition applies not only to classical waves but also to quantum waves. In quantum mechanics, the wave function represents the probability amplitude of finding a particle at a particular position. When two wave functions are superposed, the resulting wave function is the sum of the probability amplitudes of the individual wave functions. When two quantum waves interfere, they create an interference pattern. This interference pattern is a result of the superposition of the individual probability amplitudes. The interference pattern can exhibit features such as interference fringes, where the probability of finding the particle is enhanced in certain regions and suppressed in others. These interference fringes arise due to the constructive and destructive interference of the probability amplitudes. The concept of interference patterns resulting from superposition is a fundamental aspect of quantum mechanics. It illustrates the wave-like nature of quantum particles and the probabilistic nature of their behavior. The interference patterns observed in experiments such as the double-slit experiment demonstrate the wave-particle duality of quantum particles. Superposition allows for the wave function of a quantum particle to evolve over time, leading to phenomena such as quantum interference. The interference patterns that result from superposition play a crucial role in determining the behavior of quantum systems. By understanding how interference patterns arise from the superposition of wave functions, we can gain insights into the underlying principles of quantum mechanics.
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