Part V — Chapter 15
Quantum Mechanics
The strange theory that governs the subatomic world
15.1 Planck and the Quantum
In 1900, Max Planck (1858–1947) solved the black-body radiation problem by assuming energy comes in discrete packets — quanta. This seemingly technical fix launched the quantum revolution.
15.2 Heisenberg, Schrödinger & Dirac
Werner Heisenberg developed matrix mechanics and the uncertainty principle. Erwin Schrödinger formulated wave mechanics. Paul Dirac unified the two approaches and predicted antimatter, confirmed with the discovery of the positron in 1932.
15.3 Interpretation and Impact
The Copenhagen interpretation (Bohr and Heisenberg) held that quantum mechanics is fundamentally probabilistic. Einstein objected — "God does not play dice." The debate continues, but quantum mechanics remains the most precisely tested theory in all of science.