Bohr–van Leeuwen theorem – magnetism in solids is a quantum mechanical effect

Re:Bohr–van Leeuwen theorem – magnetism in solids is a quant... by Izkata on Sunday July 19, 2020 @07:55PM (#23893428)

But in the video he does eventually get to one, that GGGP half-mentions: It's (just about) the same force that prevents you from putting your hand through a chair even though atoms are mostly empty space, but strengthened due to how magnets are made so it works at a much larger distance.

It's a simple, relatively satisfactory explanation a layperson should understand, that provides a hook for finding more in-depth knowledge if the asker wants to.

The whole rest of it was unnecessary.

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Re:Bohr–van Leeuwen theorem – magnetism in solids is a quant... by aeternum on Sunday July 19, 2020 @09:19PM (#23893838)

Saying that it's the same force might provide some additional info but it is not really answering the question about why there is a force.

The idea that atoms are mostly empty space is a great analog to his rubber band example. Our attempts to explain atoms in terms of electrons cleanly orbiting a nucleus gives people the wrong picture. Atoms are not mostly empty space, electrons become standing waves when part of an atom and it's not just that we cannot measure their position with accuracy, their position does not exist. The solar system metaphor for the atom has probably caused more harm than good.

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