Viewing Standing Quantum Waves

Electrons are waves - and these days it is now possible to observe directly the standing waves of electron probability density on surfaces, using a device known as a tunnelling electron microscope. The diagram below shows 48 iron atoms on a surface, with the ripples showing the standing waves of the electron density. This is taken from the IBM Almaden Website, where you can find many more wonderful pictures.

Standing waves of electron probability density on a copper surface

 

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