Introducing Quantum Physics with Low-Cost Quantitative Experiments

We present three quantitative optical low-cost experiments aimed at introducing students to quantum physics from a phenomenological point of view. The first experiment, focussed on light diffraction, introduces the uncertainty principle while the others could be used to discuss quantum states and measurements and the collapse of the wave-function, first analyzing light transmission through three polarizers, and then using the latter to set-up a classical analogue of a quantum eraser. The experiments do not require expensive materials or specific laboratory instruments and employ the sensors and camera of common mobile devices. The experiments were tested with master students in mathematics and physics, who aim at becoming high school teachers.