Print ViewSimultaneous Measurements of Position and Velocity

In summary, to find the x component of an electron's velocity, v_x, with a minimum percentage uncertainty of 1%, we can use the expression (Delta x * Delta p_x) >= h/2pi, where Delta x is the uncertainty in the x coordinate, Delta p_x is the uncertainty in the x component of momentum, and h is Planck's constant. From this, we can calculate delta p_x as h/(2pi*delta x) and since delta v_x is 1% of v_x, we can then equate it to m*delta v_x. Further steps would be needed to solve for v_x.
  • #1
Sasa888
4
0

Homework Statement




The x coordinate of an electron is measured with an uncertainty of 0.200 mm. What is v_x, the x component of the electron's velocity, if the minimum percentage uncertainty in a simultaneous measurement of v_x is 1.00 %? Use the following expression for the uncertainty principle:

(Delta x * Delta p_x )> or = h/2pi,

where Delta x is the uncertainty in the x coordinate of a particle, Delta p_x is the particle's uncertainty in the x component of momentum, and where h is Planck's constant.




My attempt:

delta p_x = h/(2pi*delta x)

delta p_x=m* delta v_x ??

i dnt know if i am allowed to do this.. also if it is allowed i don't know what to do next..
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
So far so good! Now the other thing you have been given is that delta v_x is 1% of v_x.
 
  • #3
Ok I am going to try it
Thanks a lot!
 

1. What is the principle behind simultaneous measurements of position and velocity?

The principle behind simultaneous measurements of position and velocity is known as the Heisenberg uncertainty principle. According to this principle, it is impossible to know the exact position and velocity of a particle at the same time. This is because the act of measuring one quantity affects the other, making it impossible to determine both with absolute certainty.

2. How is this principle applied in Print ViewSimultaneous Measurements of Position and Velocity?

In Print ViewSimultaneous Measurements of Position and Velocity, the principle is applied by using specialized instruments and techniques that allow for the measurement of both position and velocity simultaneously. These measurements are then recorded and analyzed to determine the uncertainty in each quantity.

3. What are the benefits of performing simultaneous measurements of position and velocity?

The benefits of performing simultaneous measurements of position and velocity include gaining a better understanding of the behavior of particles at the quantum level, as well as being able to make more accurate predictions about their future behavior. This is particularly useful in fields such as quantum mechanics and particle physics.

4. Are there any limitations to simultaneous measurements of position and velocity?

Yes, there are limitations to simultaneous measurements of position and velocity due to the Heisenberg uncertainty principle. While we can determine the uncertainty in each quantity, it is impossible to know the exact values of both at the same time. This is a fundamental limitation in our ability to measure and understand the behavior of particles at the quantum level.

5. How does the uncertainty in position and velocity affect our understanding of the physical world?

The uncertainty in position and velocity affects our understanding of the physical world by challenging our traditional notions of cause and effect. At the quantum level, particles can behave in seemingly unpredictable ways, and the uncertainty principle plays a crucial role in this behavior. It also highlights the limitations of our current scientific understanding and the need for further research and exploration in this area.

Similar threads

  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
7
Views
1K
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • Quantum Physics
Replies
12
Views
670
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
11
Views
2K
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
1K
Replies
13
Views
2K
  • Quantum Interpretations and Foundations
2
Replies
37
Views
3K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
840
Back
Top