Definition of Tunnel Effect

In the field of physics, two great worlds or scales are distinguished: the macroscopic and the subatomic. In each of these worlds reigns a paradigm different: in the subatomic world quantum mechanics governs physical laws and in the macroscopic world the laws of general relativity prevail.

Since the discovery and understanding of quantum laws, physicists have looked at the obligation to create a unified theory, the theory of everything. Thus, events that happen normally at the subatomic level cannot be conceived at the macroscopic level. This is the case of the tunnel effect.

The tunnel effect is explained from quantum theory

If you ask the following question: what would happen if we hit the wall an infinite number of times? If we trust our experience on the macroscopic plane, anyone would claim that it is impossible to pass through the wall. However, do not forget that there is another world. Thus, quantum laws state that although two electrons repel each other at a certain distance, when this distance decreases the

force "strong" comes into play and, taking this into account, although the probability It is negligible, there is the theoretical possibility that we can go through the wall.

Although this effect seems very distant and improbable to us, in the immensity of the universe it happens constantly

In fact, scientists claim that it is this effect that allows the Sun and other stars to shine with such light.

On the other hand, it should be noted that there is not only theoretical but also empirical evidence of this event, as has been observed in the microscope tunneling since 1983 with the discovery of scientists Gerd Binnig and Heinrich Rohrer, which allowed them to obtain the Nobel Prize in physics.

Other tunnel effects

This name also appears in other areas. When driving, such an effect occurs when, due to improper use of the seat belt, safety an incorrect position is adopted and this produces various problems (appearance of fatigue at the wheel, discomfort, etc.).

Some visual pathologies cause reduced vision, as if looking through a small tunnel (retinitis pigmentosa has this unique characteristic).

In the sphere of psychology It has been proven that in situations of stress or danger adrenaline is activated and as a result the visual field creates a tunnel effect. This mechanism is purely instinctive and serves to focus the danger in a concrete way.

Tunnel Effect Themes