Quantum mechanics is a theory which tries to describe, and predict the behavior of physical systems. ... But as an algorithm for predicting the outcome of an enormous body of spectroscopic and scattering experiments, QM is astoundingly successful. ... The wave function allows us to compute the probability that certain macroscopic events will be observed. ... A cat is penned up in a steel chamber, along with the following diabolical device (which must be secured against direct interference by the cat): in a Geiger counter there is a tiny bit of radioactive substance, so small that perhaps i...

• Word Count: 3424
• Approx Pages: 14
• Has Bibliography
• Grade Level: Undergraduate

It predicts probabilities based on experiments conducted in the subatomic setting, where the probabilities are impossible to visualize. ... Quantum theory can be understood by demonstrating this example: there is no way to calculate where a single photon in a double slit experiment will strike the photographic plate, however, we can calculate the probability that it will strike it at a certain place. Basically, the outcomes of the variables involved can be only predicted but they are not absolute; it is also known as the uncertainty principle. ...

• Word Count: 2014
• Approx Pages: 8
• Has Bibliography
• Grade Level: Undergraduate