Uncertainty Principle in Wilson Cloud Chamber Measurements

In summary, an alpha-particle produced by radioactive decay can be observed in a Wilson Cloud Chamber, where its position is continuously measured by ionizing the vapor molecules. If a magnetic field is present, the particle's curved track can determine its momentum. Despite the precise measurement of both position and momentum, the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle is not applicable in this scenario due to the experimental resolution being much lower than the theoretical bound.
  • #1
LarryS
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An alpha-particle produced by radioactive decay leaves a visible continuous track in a Wilson Cloud Chamber. As it collides with and ionizes the molecules of the vapor, its position is constantly being “measured” by the vapor molecules. If a magnetic field is present, its track will be curved and its momentum can be determined based on the degree of curvature (less curvature = more momentum). It seems like the particle’s position and momentum are both being measured precisely at the same time. Where is the Uncertainty Principle in this scenario?

Thanks in advance.
 
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  • #2
Heisenberg inequality bound is usually far far far below the experimental resolution of such a chamber. Maybe you should use realistic numbers to check that.
 

1. What is a Wilson Cloud Chamber?

A Wilson Cloud Chamber is a device used in particle physics to detect and track the paths of subatomic particles, such as electrons and protons. It was invented by Scottish physicist Charles Thomson Rees Wilson in 1911.

2. How does a Wilson Cloud Chamber work?

A Wilson Cloud Chamber works by creating a supersaturated vapor in a sealed environment. When a charged particle passes through the chamber, it ionizes the vapor and creates a visible trail of droplets, allowing scientists to track the particle's path.

3. What is the purpose of a Wilson Cloud Chamber in particle physics?

The purpose of a Wilson Cloud Chamber is to study the properties and behavior of subatomic particles. By observing the paths of particles in the chamber, scientists can gather information about their charge, mass, and energy.

4. What is the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle (HUP)?

The Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle is a fundamental principle in quantum mechanics that states that it is impossible to simultaneously know the exact position and momentum of a particle. This means that the more precisely we know the position of a particle, the less precisely we can know its momentum, and vice versa.

5. How does the Wilson Cloud Chamber relate to the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle?

The Wilson Cloud Chamber provides a visual representation of the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle. The particle's path in the chamber can be thought of as its position, while the droplets it leaves behind represent the uncertainty in its momentum. This illustrates the inherent uncertainty in the behavior of subatomic particles.

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