Kvanttitunnelin

Kvanttitunnelin refers to quantum tunneling, a quantum mechanical phenomenon where a particle can pass through a potential energy barrier even if it does not have enough classical energy to overcome it. This occurs because quantum particles exhibit wave-like properties, and their wave function can extend into and through the barrier. The probability of tunneling depends on the height and width of the barrier, as well as the mass and energy of the particle. A higher or wider barrier, or a more massive or lower-energy particle, results in a lower probability of tunneling.

Quantum tunneling is a counter-intuitive concept from classical physics, where such an event would be impossible. However, it is a well-established and experimentally verified phenomenon. It plays a crucial role in various natural processes and technological applications. Examples include radioactive decay, nuclear fusion in stars, and the operation of scanning tunneling microscopes (STMs). In STMs, electrons tunnel between a sharp tip and a sample surface, allowing for atomic-scale imaging. The effect is also fundamental to the functioning of semiconductor devices like tunnel diodes. Understanding and harnessing quantum tunneling has been essential for advancements in physics and engineering.