Quantum tunneling is a phenomenon in [[Quantum Mechanics|quantum mechanics]] where a particle passes through a [[Potential Energy|potential energy barrier]] that it classically should not be able to surmount. In classical physics, for example, a ball needs to be pushed up a hill first in order for it to roll down on the other side. Instead, a quantum particle can pass through a potential barrier via the tunneling effect. ![[tunneling.excalidraw.light.svg]] This occurs because, in quantum theory, particles [[Wave-Particle Duality|exhibit wave-like properties]], allowing them to exist in a [[Superposition|superposition]] of [[Quantum State|states]] and have a probability of being found on the other side of the barrier. Tunneling is fundamental to many physical processes, including nuclear fusion in stars, electron transport in [[Semiconductor||semiconductors]], and the operation of [[Scanning Tunneling Microscope||scanning tunneling microscopes]]. It challenges [[Classical Physics||classical]] notions of [[Energy||energy]] constraints and underscores the probabilistic nature of quantum mechanics. >[!read]- Further Reading >- [[Quantum Mechanics]] >- [[Electron]] >- [[Superposition]] >[!ref]- References