Conceptual Physics (12th Edition)

Published by Addison-Wesley
ISBN 10: 0321909100
ISBN 13: 978-0-32190-910-7

Chapter 32 - Think and Explain - Page 613-614: 40

Answer

The probability amplitude is what "waves".

Work Step by Step

The solution to Schrodinger's equation is a matter wave, the wave function $\psi$. The physical interpretation of $\psi$ is as a probability amplitude. The particle associated with the matter wave is more likely to be found where $\psi$ has a large amplitude, i.e., where it is large. The particle is less likely to be found where $\psi$ has a small amplitude, i.e., where it is small. The probability density function, $|\psi|^{2}$, is the square of the probability amplitude. This is discussed on page 610.
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