<P> Matter waves are a central part of the theory of quantum mechanics , being an example of wave -- particle duality . All matter can exhibit wave - like behavior . For example , a beam of electrons can be diffracted just like a beam of light or a water wave . The concept that matter behaves like a wave , proposed by Louis de Broglie in 1924 , is also referred to as the de Broglie hypothesis ( / dəˈbrɔɪ / ) . Matter waves are referred to as de Broglie waves . </P>
<P> Matter waves are a central part of the theory of quantum mechanics , being an example of wave -- particle duality . All matter can exhibit wave - like behavior . For example , a beam of electrons can be diffracted just like a beam of light or a water wave . The concept that matter behaves like a wave , proposed by Louis de Broglie in 1924 , is also referred to as the de Broglie hypothesis ( / dəˈbrɔɪ / ) . Matter waves are referred to as de Broglie waves . </P>
who predicted that all matter can behave as waves
who predicted that all matter can behave as waves
Louis de Broglie
Louis de Broglie