GK QUESTION#3057
Examine the following statements regarding the de Broglie hypothesis and the nature of wave-particle duality: 1. The de Broglie wavelength of a moving particle is inversely proportional to the magnitude of its momentum. 2. The wave characteristics of matter are easily detectable and significant for large, macroscopic objects in motion. 3. Wave-particle duality is a phenomenon exclusive to electromagnetic waves and cannot be applied to particles with mass. Which of the statements listed above is/are correct?
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Answer
A. 1 only
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Explanation
The de Broglie relation is λ = h/p, so wavelength is inversely proportional to momentum magnitude. Matter particles can display wave behaviour; it is not exclusive to electromagnetic radiation. For everyday macroscopic momenta the wavelength is extremely small, making such behaviour difficult to observe.