wave-particle duality

wave-par·ti·cle duality (wvpärt-kl)

n.

The exhibition of both wavelike and particlelike properties by a single entity, as of both diffraction and linear propagation by light.

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wave-particle duality

The exhibition of both wavelike and particlelike properties by a single entity. For example, electrons undergo diffraction and can interfere with each other as waves, but they also act as pointlike masses and electric charges. The theory of quantum mechanics is a attempt to explain these apparently contradictory properties exhibited by matter. See also complementarity.

Thesaurus

Noun

1.

wave-particle duality - (physics) the property of matter and electromagnetic radiation that is characterized by the fact that some properties can be explained best by wave theory and others by particle theory duality property - a basic or essential attribute shared by all members of a class; "a study of the physical properties of atomic particles" natural philosophy, physics - the science of matter and energy and their interactions; "his favorite subject was physics"