The quantum wave function is a mathematical description that characterizes the state of a quantum system.
It encodes information about the probability amplitude of finding a particle in various positions and states. In simple terms, it tells us where and how likely we are to find a particle in a particular state.
The behavior of quantum particles, such as electrons and photons, is governed by the evolution of their wave functions over time, as described by Schrödinger's equation.
Understanding and manipulating wave functions is central to quantum mechanics and has profound implications for fields like quantum computing and quantum chemistry.