Heisenberg's uncertainty principle, find uncertainty in position

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on calculating the uncertainty in the position of a proton using Heisenberg's uncertainty principle. The formula provided is Δx ≥ h/(4πmΔv), where Δv represents the uncertainty in velocity. Participants are clarifying how to handle the ±0.01 in the velocity measurement, with some suggesting it should be treated as a relative uncertainty. The expected result for the uncertainty in position is approximately 3 x 10^-10 meters. The conversation emphasizes the importance of correctly interpreting the uncertainty in velocity to achieve accurate calculations.
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Homework Statement


Using Heisenberg's uncertainty principle, calculate the uncertainty in the position of a proton moving at a speed of (5.00±0.01) x 10^4 m/s.


Homework Equations


Δx\geq \frac{h}{4mΔv\pi}


The Attempt at a Solution


x\geq (6.626*10^-34)/(4pi(1.6726*10^-24)(5±0.01 * 10^4)

I get how to solve it, I just don't really understand what to do with the ±0.01. I'm assuming it's in meters, so I have to do 0.01/5 and then multiply that by 5*10^4, but I'm supposed to be getting 3*10^-10

Thanks in advance (:
 
Physics news on Phys.org
The formula says \Delta x=\frac{h}{4\pi m\Delta v}
What is \Delta v? Is it a relative or an absolute uncertainty?
 

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