Quantum Wave Function Simulation

This interactive simulation explores the fascinating world of quantum mechanics, demonstrating wave-particle duality through the famous double-slit experiment. Watch as particles create interference patterns when unobserved, but behave like classical particles when measured—one of the most profound mysteries in physics.

The Double-Slit Experiment

In quantum mechanics, particles such as electrons do not have a definite position until they are measured. Instead, they exist in a state of superposition, described by a "wave function" that represents the probability of finding the particle at any given point. The double-slit experiment beautifully illustrates this phenomenon:

• When unobserved, particles pass through both slits simultaneously, creating an interference pattern on the detector screen.
• When an observer is present at the slits, the interference pattern disappears, and particles behave like classical objects, passing through one slit or the other.

How to Use the Simulation

You can interact with the simulation using your mouse, keyboard, or touch controls. Here are the main controls:

• Fire Particle (Key: 'P'): Sends a single particle towards the slits. Each particle contributes to the pattern on the detector.
• Fire Wave (Key: 'W'): Fires a wave of particles in quick succession to quickly build up the probability pattern.
• Observe Slits (Click/Tap near Slits): Click or tap near the barrier slits to toggle the observer (yellow circles). With the observer on, particles behave classically and the interference pattern disappears.
• Reset (Key: 'R'): Clears all particles, detector hits, resets slit settings to defaults, removes any observer, and stops any running demo.
• Play Demo (Key: 'D') or Play Demo Button: Runs or stops an automated demonstration: resets the simulation, shows quantum interference, toggles the observer, and adjusts slit settings. The demo visually updates the canvas at each step. The demo will also start automatically after a period of inactivity.
• Audio Toggle (Key: 'M'): Turns sound effects on or off for particle hits. Audio is off by default.
• Slit Separation Control: Adjusts the distance between the two slits. Wider separation creates tighter, closer interference fringes; narrower separation creates wider, more spread-out fringes.
• Slit Width Control: Adjusts the width of each slit. Narrower slits create broader diffraction patterns; wider slits create more focused patterns.

Tips & Features

• The simulation is responsive and works on both desktop and mobile devices.
• Hovering or interacting with the page will prevent the demo from auto-starting.
• Try toggling the observer on and off to see the dramatic change in the pattern.
• Experiment with different slit separations and widths to explore how quantum interference depends on these parameters.

Future Directions

This simulation provides a foundational look at quantum phenomena. Future enhancements could include:

• Different Particle Types: Simulate particles with different masses or energies to see how the interference pattern changes.
• Quantum Eraser: Add a "quantum eraser" setup to demonstrate how erasing which-path information can restore interference.
• More Complex Potentials: Add more barriers or potential wells to explore tunneling and other quantum effects.
• 3D Visualization: Extend the simulation into three dimensions for a more immersive experience.