While tunneling reactions are remarkably hard to predict, a group of researchers were able to experimentally observe such an effect, marking a breakthrough in the field of quantum chemistry.
Tunnel Effect
Predicting tunnel effects is very difficult to pull off. The mechanically exact quantum description of chemical reactions that cover over three particles is quite hard. If it covers over four particles, it is almost impossible to pull off. In order to stimulate the reactions, scientists use classical physics but have to push aside the quantum effects. However, EurekAlert reports that there is a limit to classically describing these chemical reactions. What, then, is the limit?
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