De Broglie wavelength of a tennis ball

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The de Broglie wavelength of a moving tennis ball is calculated to be 1x10^-33 meters, indicating that it does not exhibit wave properties, as confirmed by option C in the multiple-choice question. The calculation utilizes the formula for wavelength, λ = h/p, where h is Planck's constant (6.63x10^-34 Js) and p is momentum. Given the typical mass of a tennis ball (approximately 58 grams), it is established that such a mass cannot approach the speed of light, reinforcing the conclusion that the tennis ball does not behave as a wave.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of de Broglie wavelength and its significance in quantum mechanics
  • Familiarity with Planck's constant and its role in wave-particle duality
  • Basic knowledge of momentum and its calculation
  • Concept of mass and its implications in physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the concept of wave-particle duality in quantum mechanics
  • Learn how to calculate momentum for various objects
  • Explore the implications of Planck's constant in different physical scenarios
  • Investigate the behavior of particles at relativistic speeds
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, educators explaining quantum mechanics, and anyone interested in the wave-particle duality of matter.

Davidmb19
Messages
21
Reaction score
0
This is a multiple choice question.
The de Broglie wavelength of a moving tennis ball is calculated as 1x10^-33. This means that the moving tennis ball
A)Diffracts through a narrow slit.
B)Does not behave as a particle
C)Does not display wave properties
D)Is traveling at the speed of light

The answer is C and I know this through the process of elimination however, I do not conceptually understand why it is. Can someone please explain?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
What's the momentum?
 
Wavelength= Plank's constant/Momentum
Therefore rearranging the equation
(6.63x10^-34)/(1x10^-33)=0.663
 
... and, the mass of a tennis ball?
 
lol We don't know the mass. This is a multiple choice but the mass of a tennis ball, in general, is about 58 grams.
 
With that mass is it anywhere near light speed?
 
Ahhhh I see! I didn't think of that. Thank you :).
 
Good --- that take care of things for you?
 
Yep. Thanks :D
 

Similar threads

De Broglie wavelength of electron and proton
  • · Replies 14 ·
Replies
14
Views
3K
De Broglie wavelength of an electron
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
3K
De Broglie wavelength of a train
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
De Broglie wavelength of an ant
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
De Broglie wavelength and energy levels
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
High School Time Dilation & Muon De Broglie Wavelength: Explained
  • · Replies 27 ·
Replies
27
Views
2K
De broglie wavelength for helium and distance between atoms
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
4K
Momentum of a proton in de Broglie wavelength
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K
Undergrad De Broglie Wavelength at rest: λ = h/p = h/0 when v=0?
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
Graduate Wavelength of a Tennis Ball at 0 Velocity
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K