Quantum physics might seem like a distant concept to our everyday lives. However, quantum phenomena play a crucial role in many things we use daily.
In our physics tuition classes, we make our teaching style relatable by using real-world examples. To offer our students a glimpse of what quantum physics is all about, we have enumerated some common examples in action around us.
Let’s take a look, shall we?
The Magic of Smartphones
Did you know our smartphones rely heavily on quantum mechanics? The semiconductors inside these devices, such as silicon chips, work due to principles of quantum physics.
Transistors, the tiny switches in these chips, function based on the ability of electrons to “tunnel” through barriers. A phenomenon that is only possible because of quantum mechanics.
This quantum tunnelling is what allows us to perform all the computations we do on our phones so rapidly. Who knew our everyday device worked on the principles of quantum physics, right?
LED Lights and Quantum Jumps
LED lights are another common example where quantum physics plays a vital role. The light-emitting diode (LED) works when electrons move through different energy levels. This is a process governed by quantum mechanics.
When an electron in an LED jumps from a higher energy level to a lower one, it releases energy in the form of light. This is why LED lights are more energy-efficient than traditional bulbs.
Photosynthesis in Plants
You might know how photosynthesis occurs but do you know there’s the laws of quantum physics behind this process. Quantum physics isn’t just limited to technology.
When plants convert sunlight into energy, they do so with the help of quantum mechanics. During photosynthesis, photons (light particles) are absorbed by chlorophyll molecules. Hence, creating an excitation that needs to find the best path to reach the reaction centre.
This journey involves a process called “quantum coherence,” where the photon takes multiple routes simultaneously to find the most efficient one.
MRI Scans in Healthcare
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a widely used medical technology. And it relies on quantum mechanics to create detailed images of the inside of our bodies.
MRI machines use powerful magnets to alter the quantum properties of hydrogen atoms in the body. When the magnetic field is turned off, the atoms release tiny radio signals that the machine detects.
Quantum physics helps to process these signals into images. Therefore, allowing doctors to see what’s happening inside the body without needing surgery.
Laser Technology in Everyday Use
Lasers, found in everything from barcode scanners to DVD players, work on principles of quantum physics. The laser beam is produced when electrons in a material are activated to a higher energy level and then return to their original state.
This process releases photons, which then stimulate other electrons to release more photons in a chain reaction. The result is a focused and powerful beam of light.
Thanks to quantum mechanics, lasers have countless applications in medicine, communication, and entertainment.
But that’s not all, quantum physics play their role in many mundane things which we use or come across daily. Want to know more about them? Our physics tuition classes are fun and engaging where tutors use everyday examples like these to boost learning. Join us and improve your performance in Physics.