- #1
shinokk
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Here's how I understand it:When a photon strikes an electron near one of the slits, it bounces (sometimes back at the observer) and registered as a sharp point of light for the observer. In the process, the electrons momentum is disturbed to a degree that is inversely proportional to the wavelength of the light used.
In the next experiment, light of a much longer wavelength is used (in order to strike the electrons with a minimal change in electron momentum). Feynman describes how the photon will bounce to the observer, but will cause a blurry area of light for the observer, rather than a well defined point of light.
The light of a shorter wavelength disturbs the momentum of the electron, but shows the electron's position.
Why doesn't the light of a longer wavelength disturb the momentum of the electron?