Quantum Superposition
A core principle of quantum mechanics stating that a quantum system can exist in a linear combination of multiple distinct quantum states simultaneously until measured.
Governing formula
|Ψ⟩ = α |0⟩ + β |1⟩, |α|² + |β|² = 1
SI unit
Dimensionless State Vector
In depth
Superposition arises from the linear nature of the Schrödinger equation. Measurement forces the superposition state to collapse probabilistically into one of the definite eigenstates with probability |α|² or |β|².
Examples in the real world
Quantum computing qubits processing superpositions of 0 and 1 states simultaneously for parallel computation.