Hannover 2010 – scientific programme

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DD: Fachverband Didaktik der Physik

DD 6: Neue Konzepte I (Quantenphysik)

DD 6.2: Talk

Monday, March 8, 2010, 13:20–13:40, S5

Quantum Minigolf — •Friedemann Reinhard — Universität Stuttgart, 3. Physikalisches Institut

Quantum minigolf is a virtual-reality computer game visualizing quantum mechanics. The rules are the same as for the classical game minigolf, the goal being to kick a ball such that it crosses an obstacle course and runs into a hole. The ball, however, follows the laws of quantum mechanics: It can be at several places at once or tunnel through obstacles. To know whether the ball has reached the goal, the player has to perform a position measurement, which converts the ball into a classical object and fixes its position. But quantum mechanics is indeterministic: There is always a chance to lose, even for Tiger Woods.

Technically, the obstacle course and the ball are projected onto the floor by a video projector. The position of the club is tracked by an infrared marker, similar as in Nintendo's Wii console. The whole setup is portable and the software has been published under the GPL license on www.quantum-minigolf.org.