Paper ID: 2402.01773

Creating a Synthesizer from Schr\"odinger's Equation

Arthur Freye, Jannis Müller

Our project offers an alternative approach to the sensory perception of the Schr\"odinger equation (an elementary model of quantum phenomena) by interpreting it as a sound wave. We are building a synthesizer plugin that simulates a quantum mechanical state that evolves over time. Thus, our tool allows the creation of unique sounds that are in motion and feel alive. These can be used in professional music production without any knowledge of physics, while at the same time providing insight into a chapter of quantum mechanics. The goal is to lower the threshold for entering complex theory by first developing an intuition for the subject; but the tool can also be used purely as a musical instrument. The user is encouraged, but not forced, to learn more about the underlying physics. Simulation parameters are adjustable in real-time, allowing intuitive experimentation. Despite the approximate calculations, real physical effects such as quantum tunneling can be observed acoustically and visually.

Submitted: Feb 1, 2024