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Quantum Zeno Effect
Episode 4 of Quantum on the Back of an Envelope. In this episode of Quantum on the Back of an Envelope , we explore how frequent observations -- more precisely, projective measurements -- can dramatically alter the time evolution of a quantum system, and in some cases even freeze it altogether. This fascinating phenomenon is known as the quantum Zeno effect.
Sep 4, 2025


Quantum Fractals
Episode 3 of Quantum on the Back of an Envelope. In this episode of Quantum on the Back of an Envelope , we explore quantum fractals through one of the simplest quantum-mechanical systems: the particle in a box. The fractal wave function discussed here is based on the paper: M. V. Berry, Quantum fractals in boxes , J. Phys. A: Math. Gen. 29, 6617 (1996) .
Aug 17, 2025


Attractive Potential with No Ground State
Episode 2 of Quantum on the Back of an Envelope. In this episode of Quantum on the Back of an Envelope , we explore the strange and fascinating -1/x ² potential. Despite being attractive and infinitely deep, it has no ground state -- and therefore no discrete energy spectrum. In a certain regime, the system can be so unstable that it could (theoretically) destroy the universe. No equations -- just simple dimensional analysis.
Aug 12, 2025
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