Scale of uncertainty principle

In summary, the uncertainty principle can be considered in both atomic and non-atomic scales, depending on the interpretation and context. In its mathematical form, it has a precise probabilistic meaning and applies to both mixed and pure states. However, its interpretation in physics goes beyond the simple inequality and may not be appropriate in macroscopic domains. Planck's constant is very small, so its effects on macroscopic scales are minimal. The Schrodinger's cat thought experiment was created to challenge the Copenhagen Interpretation and while quantum weirdness can affect classical results, in general, it averages out.
  • #1
rahuljayanthb
13
0
in what scale can we consider the uncertainty principle?can it be considered in the non atomic scale?
 
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  • #2
I would say: that will depend on what is the meaning (or interpretation) that you are going to put it. Uncertainty principle in its mathematical form has a very precise probabilistic meaning. It is valid for mixed states as well as for pure states. But in physics its interpretation goes far beyond the simple inequality. Some of this extrapolation may not be appropriate in the macroscopic domain, it may lose its meaning.
 
  • #3
\Delta x\, \Delta p \ge \frac{\hbar}{2}

huh... I thought there was a way to insert equations here, but I'm too dull to find it.

Anyway, according to wiki (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Uncertainty_principle)
The principle states that a minimum exists for the product of the uncertainties in these properties that is equal to or greater than one half of the reduced Planck constant (ħ = h/2π).

And Planck's constant is pretty danged tiny, so macroscopic effects are very minimal. I like to think of them as being averaged out in a wash of counter-uncertainties.
 
  • #4
Schrodingers cat
 
  • #6
Just had to try it...

[tex]
\Delta x\, \Delta p \ge \frac{\hbar}{2}
[/tex]

Hah. Thanks! I thought there was a little clicky-button on the editor for it, but lost patience with waiting for the tool-tits to popup and explain things to me.


To continue beating the dead schrodinger cat thing: That old chestnut was invented to show how absurd the Copenhagen Interpretation could be (IIRC). While there are places where quantum weirdness can affect classical results the general case is one of "averaging out". The usual thrust of these scale questions is: Could the entire solar-system suddenly appear on the other side of the galaxy? And the answer is: Yes, but it's so improbable as to be impossible.
 

What is the scale of uncertainty principle?

The scale of the uncertainty principle refers to the range of values in which the position and momentum of a particle cannot be precisely determined at the same time.

Why is the scale of uncertainty principle important in quantum mechanics?

The scale of uncertainty principle is important in quantum mechanics because it sets a fundamental limit on the precision with which certain physical properties of a particle can be known. This has significant implications for our understanding of the behavior of subatomic particles.

How is the scale of uncertainty principle related to Heisenberg's uncertainty principle?

The scale of uncertainty principle and Heisenberg's uncertainty principle are essentially the same concept. Both refer to the limitation on simultaneously knowing the position and momentum of a particle with absolute certainty. The scale of uncertainty principle is a more specific term that describes the range of values in which this uncertainty exists.

Does the scale of uncertainty principle apply to macroscopic objects?

No, the scale of uncertainty principle only applies to particles and systems at the quantum level. Macroscopic objects have a much larger scale and are governed by classical mechanics, where the uncertainty principle does not apply.

How does the scale of uncertainty principle impact our ability to measure and predict the behavior of particles?

The scale of uncertainty principle affects our ability to measure and predict the behavior of particles by limiting the precision with which we can know their properties. This means that there will always be a level of uncertainty in our measurements and predictions, making it impossible to have complete knowledge of a particle's state.

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