This video explores one of the most fascinating and esoteric properties of quantum mechanics: quantum tunnelling. The video begins by explaining an apparent paradox involving alpha decay, and then goes on to show how the theory of quantum tunnelling can provide a solution. The Schrodinger equation is solved for a rectangular barrier, and the tunnelling probability is calculated. A simplified model of quantum tunnelling is then used to calculate the half-life of Polonium-212, and the theoretically determined value is compared with the experimentally determined value. Quantum physics of atoms, molecules, solids, nuclei and particles - Eisberg and Resnick Introduction to Quantum Mechanics - Griffiths and Schroeter Introductory Nuclear Physics - Krane Vibrations and Waves - King HyperPhysics Tunnelling example - http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/Nuclear/alptun2.html#c1 The Quantum Story - Jim Baggot Quantum Physics for Dummies - Steven Holzner Thirty Years that Shook Physics - Gamow Inward Bound - Abraham Pais You can help support this channel via the Physics Explained Patreon account: https://www.patreon.com/physicsexplained You can follow me on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/physics_explained_ig You can follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PhysicsExplain1