What is Quantum Tunneling? | Neil deGrasse Tyson Explains…
What is quantum tunnelling? On this explainer, Neil deGrasse Tyson and comic co-host Chuck Nice dive into quantum physics, thermonuclear fusion, and when quantum particles start misbehaving. What is the least energy to get to the other side of a hill? A little hint: the answer isn’t “Running Up That Hill.” Learn about wave functions, potential barriers, and quantum wedding crashing. What would it take to merge two hydrogen atoms to make helium? We get into electromagnetic repulsion, thermonuclear fusion, and what temperature you would need to get the hydrogen atoms in order to get them to join. How do stars get these atoms to join? What percent of atom collisions will tunnel? Plus, would we exist without quantum tunnelling? Get the NEW Cosmic Queries book (5/5 ⭐s on Amazon!): https://amzn.to/3dYIEQF Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/startalkradio FOLLOW or SUBSCRIBE to StarTalk: Twitter: http://twitter.com/startalkradio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StarTalk Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/startalk About StarTalk: Science meets pop culture on StarTalk! Astrophysicist & Hayden Planetarium director Neil deGrasse Tyson, his comic co-hosts, guest celebrities & scientists discuss astronomy, physics, and everything else about life in the universe. Keep Looking Up! #StarTalk #neildegrassetyson 0:00 - Introduction 1:10 - Potential Barriers 2:21 - Wave Functions 3:34 - Quantum Mechanical Tunneling 4:42 - Where Do We Get Elements? 10:00 - New Physics 10:37 - Faster Than Light Travel 11:30 - Closing Notes
