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Physics 14 Online
OpenStudy (anonymous):

is quantum tunneling the reason why we can smell stuff even through thick sealed jars?

OpenStudy (anonymous):

@SolomonZelman

OpenStudy (anonymous):

@wio

OpenStudy (anonymous):

I don't think that the particles we smell are small enough to be described with quantum mechanics.

OpenStudy (surry99):

no

OpenStudy (anonymous):

so how are you able to smell things through tightly sealed jars?

OpenStudy (anonymous):

The seal isn't necessarily perfect, or residue lies on the outside of the jar

OpenStudy (anonymous):

oh okay. I'm not sure what approximate size or mass a particle must have inorder to experience quantum effects. anyway was just curious. Thanks ^_^

OpenStudy (anonymous):

Generally things that are too small for the body to detect.

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