ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Position and momentum space

Position space is where we see things based on where they are in the room. For example, if we see a ball sitting on the floor, we know it's in a certain spot in the room.

Momentum space is where we see things based on how fast they're moving. For example, if we see a ball rolling on the floor, we can tell how fast it's moving based on how quickly it's rolling.

In physics, we use position and momentum space to describe the movement of objects. We use a mathematical tool called "wave functions" to map out the movement of particles. A wave function is like a map that tells us where particles are located and how fast they're moving.

So, in position space, we use wave functions to map out where particles are located in a room. In momentum space, we use wave functions to map out how fast they're moving.

It's kind of like using a Google Maps app to navigate through the city. In position space, we use the map to find things in a certain spot in the city. In momentum space, we use the map to find things that are moving quickly.

Overall, position and momentum space are just different ways of looking at the movement of particles. By using these concepts, physicists can better understand how particles move and interact with each other.