Uncertainty principle, relating the uncertainty in position to the uncertainty

In summary, the conversation discusses proving the uncertainty principle, which relates the uncertainty in position (A=x) to the uncertainty in energy (B=p^2/(2m + V)). It also mentions the generalized uncertainty relation and how it applies to stationary states. The conversation ends by stating the result of the proof and referencing a book for further reading.
  • #1
ttiger654
2
0
Prove the uncertainty principle, relating the uncertainty in position (A=x) to the uncertainty in energy ([tex]B=p^2/(2m + V)[/tex]):

[tex]\sigma x\sigma H \geq \hbar/2m |<P>|[/tex]

For stationary states this doesn't tell you much -- why not??
 
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  • #2
What have you done so far? Do you know the generalized uncertainty relation? Read the guidelines to this forum, please, and we'll be able to help more.
 
  • #3
ttiger654 said:
Prove the uncertainty principle, relating the uncertainty in position (A=x) to the uncertainty in energy ([tex]B=p^2/(2m + V)[/tex]):

[tex]\sigma x\sigma H \geq \hbar/2m |<P>|[/tex]

For stationary states this doesn't tell you much -- why not??



solution-
[x,p2/2m+V]=1/2m[x, p2]+[x,V];

[x, p2]= xp2 − p2x = xp2 − pxp + pxp − p2x = [x, p]p + p[x, p].

using the equation [x,p]=ih{this is known as canonocal commutation relation}

[x, p2]= ihp + pih = 2ihp. and And [x, V ] = 0,
so [x,p2/2m+ V]=1/2m(2ihp) = ihp/m

The generalized uncertainty principle says, in this case,

σ2xσ2H≥{(1/2i)(ih/m)<p>}^2={h/2m<p>}^2⇒ σxσH ≥h/2m|<p>|. QED

For stationary states σH = 0 and p = 0, so it just says 0 ≥ 0.
 
  • #4
for reference u can use {griffiths_d.j._introduction_to_quantum_mechanics__2ed.}
 

1. What is the uncertainty principle?

The uncertainty principle is a fundamental principle in quantum mechanics that states that it is impossible to know both the exact position and momentum of a particle at the same time. This means that there will always be a degree of uncertainty in measuring these properties.

2. How does the uncertainty principle relate to the uncertainty in position?

The uncertainty principle states that the more precisely we know the position of a particle, the less precisely we can know its momentum. This means that as the uncertainty in the position decreases, the uncertainty in the momentum increases.

3. What is the relationship between the uncertainty in position and the uncertainty in momentum?

The uncertainty in position and momentum are inversely proportional to each other. This means that as one decreases, the other increases. This is described by the Heisenberg's uncertainty principle equation: ΔxΔp ≥ h/4π, where Δx is the uncertainty in position, Δp is the uncertainty in momentum, and h is Planck's constant.

4. Why is the uncertainty principle important in quantum mechanics?

The uncertainty principle is important because it sets a limit on our ability to measure and predict the behavior of particles at the quantum level. It also challenges our traditional understanding of the physical world, as it shows that there is inherent uncertainty and randomness in the behavior of particles.

5. How does the uncertainty principle affect our everyday lives?

The effects of the uncertainty principle are not noticeable in our everyday lives, as it is only applicable at the quantum level. However, many technological advancements, such as transistors in computers and lasers, rely on our understanding of the uncertainty principle and its implications in quantum mechanics.

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