An application of the uncertainty principle

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the application of the uncertainty principle in quantum mechanics, specifically regarding an electron confined in a region of size L. It establishes that the uncertainty in position (Δx) must be less than L, leading to a calculable uncertainty in momentum (Δp). The kinetic energy of the electron can then be approximated using the relationship between momentum and kinetic energy, resulting in the conclusion that the standard deviation of kinetic energy is Δp²/2m, which remains smaller than the average kinetic energy value.

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Youyang Zhao
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It is in the IB textbook. Said as an application of the uncertainty principle, consider an electron, which is known to be confined in a region of size L.
We know the uncertainty in position of the electron must satisfy Δx<L.
Therefore, according to the uncertainty principle, we can work out the approximate value of the uncertainty in momentum.
Then, as shown in the picture attached, an approximate value of the kinetic energy of the electron is worked out.
ImageUploadedByPhysics Forums1468640544.931531.jpg

I can not understand the process. How did they work out the value of kinetic energy (or value of the momentum) with the uncertainty of the momentum?
Asking questions for the first time. Thank you for your time and patience.
 
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Well, a kinetic energy is always a positive quantity, so it would be kind of crazy if its standard deviation was larger than its average value.
 
hilbert2 said:
Well, a kinetic energy is always a positive quantity, so it would be kind of crazy if its standard deviation was larger than its average value.

Does that mean by mathematical calculation, we can get the result that the standard deviation of the kinetic energy equals to Δp^2/2m, which is smaller than the average value of the kinetic energy?
 

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