In quantum mechanics, the probability current (sometimes called probability flux) is a mathematical quantity describing the flow of probability (i.e. probability per unit time per unit area). Intuitively; if one pictures the probability density as an inhomogeneous fluid, then the probability current is the rate of flow of this fluid. This is analogous to mass currents in hydrodynamics and electric currents in electromagnetism. It is a real vector, like electric current density. The notion of a probability current is useful in some of the formalism in quantum mechanics.
Read more about Probability Current: Connection With Classical Mechanics, Definition (relativistic 4-current)
Famous quotes containing the words probability and/or current:
“Legends of prediction are common throughout the whole Household of Man. Gods speak, spirits speak, computers speak. Oracular ambiguity or statistical probability provides loopholes, and discrepancies are expunged by Faith.”
—Ursula K. Le Guin (b. 1929)
“The current of our thoughts made as sudden bends as the river, which was continually opening new prospects to the east or south, but we are aware that rivers flow most rapidly and shallowest at these points.”
—Henry David Thoreau (1817–1862)