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Nick_Tarleton comments on Open Thread: April 2010 - Less Wrong
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The Quantum Physics Sequence
thanks, but I was hoping for a quick answer. Working through that sequence is on my "Definitely do sometime when I have nothing too important to do" list.
OK, a quick answer: classical physics cannot be true of the reality we find ourselves in. Specifically, classical physics is contradicted by experimental results such as the photoelectric effect and the double-slit experiment. The parts of reality that require you to know quantum physics affect such important things as chemistry, semiconductors and whether our reality can contain such a thing as a "solid object". The only reason we teach classical physics is that it is easier than quantum physics. If everyone could learn quantum physics, there would be no need to teach classical physics anymore.
First of all, thanks.
Really? Isn't classical physics used in some contexts because the difference between the classical model and reality isn't enough to justify extra complications? I'm thinking specifically of engineers.
True. Revised sentence: the only reasons for using classical physics are that it is easier to learn, easier to calculate with and it helps you understand people who know only classical physics.