Double Slit Wave-Particle Duality Model

The Double Slit Wave-Particle Duality Model demonstrates how matter and light exhibit both wave- and particle-like properties in single and double slit experiments. The simulation involves a detector screen placed behind an aperture with one or two open slits. Particles (electrons or photons) pass through the experiment individually, and their impact is recorded on the screen.

Although it is initially challenging to discern a pattern, a diffraction (interference) pattern eventually emerges, suggesting that each particle is interfering with itself. The particle seems to be going through both slits as if it were a wave but is detected (observed) at only one location as if it were a particle. This simultaneous wave-particle behavior is a fascinating aspect of quantum mechanics.

Classical Wave Theory

Classical wave theory predicts the Fraunhofer diffraction pattern I(θ) if the viewing distance is large compared to the slit width (D) or slit separation (d).

Quantum Mechanics Interpretation

Quantum mechanics interprets I(θ) as the probability of finding the particle (photon or electron) striking the screen. Photons or electrons can each behave like particles or waves, but not at the same time.