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Cambridge University Press eBooks

Quantum Mechanics and the Path Integral

Manu B. Paranjape

Published Nov 4, 2022• 130 citations
Publisher

Abstract

Our starting point will be single-particle quantum mechanics as defined by the Schrödinger equation
DOI
10.1017/9781009291248.003

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One of the important classic experiments that led to the fundamental difference between quantum and classical mechanics is the double slit experiment, which is interesting with respect to the path integral formalism since it leads to a conceptual motivation for introducing it. From Quantum Mechanics, the probability amplitude can also be determined from the Schrodinger equation as it describes the wave properties of the particles. From Quantum Mechanics, the probability amplitude (square of the probability function or wave function) can also be determined from the Schrodinger equation as it describes the wave properties of the particles. Here, the role of the trajectory of a point-like particle, formally is revived in a way compatible with the indetermination principle and is indeed the path integral approach to quantum mechanics.
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