Physics:Quantum Stern-Gerlach experiment
The Stern-Gerlach experiment is a Book I topic in the Quantum Collection. It demonstrated that angular momentum components are quantized by sending silver atoms through an inhomogeneous magnetic field and observing discrete beam splitting. In modern quantum mechanics the experiment is a standard model of spin measurement. A spin-1/2 particle prepared along one axis gives probabilistic outcomes when measured along another axis. The experiment connects spin, magnetic moments, state preparation, projection, measurement back-action, and the departure of microscopic systems from classical continuous variables.
Overview
Placeholder: introduce the Stern-Gerlach experiment as a key demonstration that angular momentum projections are quantized.
Key ideas
Placeholder: cover spin, magnetic moment, inhomogeneous magnetic field, quantized outcomes, measurement.
Historical setup
Placeholder: develop this section with definitions, experimental details, formulas, and links to related Quantum Collection pages.
Spin splitting
Placeholder: develop this section with definitions, experimental details, formulas, and links to related Quantum Collection pages.
Measurement outcomes
Placeholder: develop this section with definitions, experimental details, formulas, and links to related Quantum Collection pages.
Role in quantum mechanics
Placeholder: develop this section with definitions, experimental details, formulas, and links to related Quantum Collection pages.
See also
Table of contents (217 articles)
Index
Full contents
References
Source attribution: Physics:Quantum Stern-Gerlach experiment
