Yves Couder

Title

A Case of Non-Quantum Quantization

Abstract

In classical physics waves and particles are entirely distinct types of things. In contrast, at microscopic scale the elementary objects are simultaneously wave-like and particle-like. This wave-particle duality is a quantum behaviour usually assumed to have no possible counterpart in classical physics. We revisited this question when we found that a droplet bouncing on a vibrated bath could become self-propelled by its coupling to the surface waves it excites. A dynamical wave-particle association is thus formed at a macroscopic scale. Surprisingly it exhibits several quantum-like behaviors: a form of uncertainty and a form of quantization are observed. I will show that they only exist in situations where information is stored in the wave-field and serves as a memory that pilots the particle.