Quantum mechanics teaches us that matter consists of waves. Interference of matter waves gives rise to delicate effects best illustrated by the double slit experiment. Aharonov and Bohm showed that the interference pattern of electrons in a multiply connected region can be influenced by magnetic fields outside that region. This surprising effect (now called the Aharonov-Bohm effect) has been measured in the laboratory. The process of understanding and coming to terms with this effect has deepened our understanding of both quantum mechanics and electromagnetism. This paper gives an elementary account of the Aharonov-Bohm effect.
机构:
Sun Yat Sen Univ, Sch Phys & Engn, Guangzhou 510275, Guangdong, Peoples R ChinaSun Yat Sen Univ, Sch Phys & Engn, Guangzhou 510275, Guangdong, Peoples R China
机构:
Tel Aviv Univ, Raymond & Beverly Sackler Sch Phys & Astron, IL-69978 Tel Aviv, IsraelTel Aviv Univ, Raymond & Beverly Sackler Sch Phys & Astron, IL-69978 Tel Aviv, Israel