probability amplitude
nounUK /ˌprɒbəˈbɪləti ˈæmplɪtjuːd/
US /ˌprɑːbəˈbɪləti ˈæmplɪtuːd/
A number that helps scientists figure out how likely something tiny is to happen.
The probability amplitude tells us how likely the electron is to be found in that spot.
OTHER MEANINGS
2. A complex number whose squared size gives the chance of a quantum event.
Squaring the probability amplitude gives the actual probability of the outcome.
3. The coefficient attached to a quantum state in a superposition.
Each possible path has its own probability amplitude in the sum.
4. A mathematical quantity used to predict how particles interfere with each other.
When two probability amplitudes add up, they can cancel out and create a dark spot.