Skip to main content

Particles and waves: The central mystery of quantum mechanics - Chad Orzel

1,084,599 Views

11,274 Questions Answered

TEDEd Animation

Let’s Begin…

One of the most amazing facts in physics is that everything in the universe, from light to electrons to atoms, behaves like both a particle and a wave at the same time. But how did physicists arrive at this mind-boggling conclusion? Chad Orzel recounts the string of scientists who built on each other’s discoveries to arrive at this ‘central mystery’ of quantum mechanics.

A popular image of science is of the lone genius who invents a new theory in isolation purely by thinking about it. Does the story of quantum mechanics suggest that this is a good model of science?

Sign in to answer question

About TED-Ed Animations

TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »

Meet The Creators

  • Educator Chad Orzel
  • Director Joana Bartolomeu
  • Narrator Addison Anderson

More from Before and After Einstein