A Computer Simulation for Quantal Interference

Abstract

Interference of particles is one of the central phenomena of quantum mechanics. The computer program InterferenceSimulator demonstrates two-slit Fresnel interference patterns with one, the other, or both slits open. A magnetic flux situated between the two slits allows the demonstration of the Aharonov–Bohm effect. Simulations with short de Broglie wavelengths illustrate the classical limit of quantum mechanics. Because of the universality of wave phenomena, this program also demonstrates the geometrical-optics limit of wave optics for small wavelengths.