3 ms·

> computer chips are a common example of something that only works because of quantum mechanics Does that mean that quantum effects play an essential role in t

• mikrl 4y ago
  It has been a while since I studied solid state physics but yes, exactly correct. The fun effects of semiconductors rely on the electronic properties of certain solids (or their electrons, equivalently their absence ie ‘holes’) which take place at a small scale, hence the use of quantum mechanics. Some of these effects can manifest at larger scales, and can be modelled classically too.
• simne 4y ago
  Yes, and not exact. While every mosfet transistor have mode could considered genuine quantum (tunnel effect), it is not used in computers, it used in microwave generators/detectors. What used in computers, are just switch mode (electric field creating/moving/changing conducting zone), which is mostly classic physics and created as fruit of garage engineering, without understanding of quantum mechanics. And yes, this is very abstract border, as I know, 100% quantum effects considered when working with single atom or single electron (something <= 1nm), but for example, 100nm transistors, usually considered as classic physics. BTW it is very interest, what will show image sensor with ~1nm sized cells. Now their cells are much larger than wavelength, but already created superlenses, could focus on nm-sized things.