Phenomena
in bulk matter and particles are explained on the basis of classical physics
where mass, volume, time and energy are related through exact equations. Hence
it is called as deterministic physics. The laws applicable to atomic and sub
atomic particles are less certain and hence termed as probabilistic. These are
governed by quantum mechanics. Nano phase matter is made up of only a few atoms
and the properties are dominated by the surface atoms. In turn, the surface of
these atoms is made up of outer shell electrons. The behavior of the electrons
is understood in terms of quantum mechanics. Hence, the principles of quantum
mechanics, as applied to electrons, provide an important basis for interpreting
nano-scale phenomena.
The following are the principles of quantum
mechanics applied to electrons.
•
Electrons behave
as particles as well as waves and exhibit phenomena like interference.
•
The energy of an
electron can vary only by certain discrete values. Thus the energy levels of
the electrons are quantized.
•
The position and
the momentum of an electron cannot be determined precisely. Higher the
certainty in position, the higher the uncertainty in momentum; and vice versa.
•
Wavelength of
the wave associated with an electron is inversely proportional to its momentum.
The probability of existence of an electron at a
given point in 3-co-ordinate space, at a given time, is described by (the
square) of the ‘wave function’.
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