This video explores one of the most fascinating and esoteric properties of quantum mechanics: quantum tunnelling. The video begins by explaining an apparent paradox involving alpha decay, and then goes on to show how the theory of quantum tunnelling can provide a solution. The Schrodinger equation is solved for a rectangular barrier, and the tunnelling probability is calculated. A simplified model of quantum tunnelling is then used to calculate the halflife of Polonium212, and the theoretically determined value is compared with the experimentally determined value.

Quantum physics of atoms, molecules, solids, nuclei and particles Eisberg and Resnick
Introduction to Quantum Mechanics Griffiths and Schroeter
Introductory Nuclear Physics Krane
Vibrations and Waves King
HyperPhysics Tunnelling example http://hyperphysics.phyastr.gsu.edu/...
The Quantum Story Jim Baggot
Quantum Physics for Dummies Steven Holzner
Thirty Years that Shook Physics Gamow
Inward Bound Abraham Pais

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