Estimate the uncertainty in electron's position.

In summary, the uncertainty in the position of an electron with a velocity between 6.0×10^6 m/s and 6.7×10^6 m/s is estimated to be 0.00000000016546 m. This was calculated using the equation Δx≥ h/2π(mΔv), where h is Planck's constant, c is the speed of light, and the mass of the electron is 9.11*10^-31. The answer was marked incorrect despite using the correct velocity range, leading to confusion about the accuracy of the calculation.
  • #1
Steelers72
30
0
1. Question
The speed of an electron is known to be between 6.0×10^6 m/s and 6.7×10^6 m/s . Estimate the uncertainty in its position.

Homework Equations



ΔpΔx ≥ h/2π
(mΔv) Δx ≥ h/2π (Since Δp= mΔv)

Δx≥ h/2π(mΔv)

h= 6.63*10-34 J*s
c= 3.0*108
mass of electron= 9.11*10-31

The Attempt at a Solution


(6.63*10^-34)/(2pi(9.11*10^-31)*(6.7*10^6 - (6*10^6))
= 0.00000000016546 m

Apparently this is incorrect. What am I doing wrong?
 

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  • #2
The range of velocities in that picture is different from the one in your problem.
 
  • #3
blue_leaf77 said:
The range of velocities in that picture is different from the one in your problem.
I am aware, that is why I wrote my work in the 3rd step of the post. I used my own velocity range.
 
  • #4
Steelers72 said:
Apparently this is incorrect.
Why is it not correct? Using your own velocities, I also got the same value. Do I miss something about what you actually want to figure out?
 
  • #5
blue_leaf77 said:
Why is it not correct? Using your own velocities, I also got the same value. Do I miss something about what you actually want to figure out?
I'm not sure. My answer was marked incorrect which is strange. I understand the problem and how to do it. I figured maybe my work was wrong or a small error?
 

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