Sample interview questions: Explain the concept of quantum entanglement and its relevance in atomic physics.
Sample answer:
Quantum entanglement is a fundamental concept in physics that arises from the principles of quantum mechanics. It refers to a phenomenon where two or more particles become intrinsically linked together, such that the state of one particle is directly connected to the state of the other(s), regardless of the distance between them. This connection persists even if the particles are separated by vast distances, violating the classical notion of locality.
In atomic physics, quantum entanglement plays a crucial role in understanding the behavior of atomic and subatomic particles. It allows us to describe and explain phenomena that cannot be fully understood using classical physics. One such important application is in the field of quantum information and quantum computing.
Quantum entanglement is intimately related to the concept of superposition, which states that particles can exist in multiple states simultaneously. When two or more particles become entangled, their individual states can no longer be described independently, but rather as a combined system. This entangled state reflects the correlation between the particles, and any change in one particle’s state instantaneously affects the other(s) due to their entanglement.
The relevance of quantum entanglement in atomic physics is seen in various experiments and applications. For instance, the famous Bell’s theorem and subsequent experiments have confirmed the existence of entanglement and demonstrated its non-local nature. These experiments have shown that entangled particles can exhibit correlations that cannot be explained by classical theories, sugges… Read full answer