Potential Scattering

Potential scattering refers to how particles, such as electrons or photons, change direction when they encounter a region with a different potential energy, like a barrier or well. Instead of passing straight through or bouncing back, their wave-like nature causes partial transmission and reflection, influenced by the shape and strength of the potential. This process is fundamental in quantum physics, explaining phenomena like tunneling and scattering experiments, helping us understand how particles interact with complex environments at microscopic scales.