Heisenberg Uncertainty Derivation

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on deriving the quantum-mechanical uncertainty in the position of a particle at temperature T, expressed as \(\Delta x \sim \sqrt{\frac{h^{2}}{4mkT}}\), where T is the temperature and k is the Boltzmann constant. Participants utilize the uncertainty relation \(\Delta p \Delta x \geq \frac{h}{2}\) and the kinetic energy equation \(K.E. = 0.5 mv^2 = 0.5 kT\) to manipulate variables. The challenge lies in substituting the correct expressions for momentum and velocity to isolate \(\Delta x\) accurately.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of quantum mechanics principles, specifically the Heisenberg uncertainty principle.
  • Familiarity with thermodynamic concepts, particularly the relationship between temperature and kinetic energy.
  • Knowledge of basic calculus and algebra for manipulating equations.
  • Awareness of constants such as Planck's constant (h) and Boltzmann's constant (k).
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of the Heisenberg uncertainty principle in detail.
  • Learn about the implications of quantum mechanics in thermodynamics.
  • Explore the relationship between kinetic energy and temperature in statistical mechanics.
  • Investigate advanced topics in quantum mechanics, such as wave-particle duality and its effects on particle behavior.
USEFUL FOR

Students of quantum mechanics, physicists, and anyone interested in the intersection of thermodynamics and quantum theory will benefit from this discussion.

XJellieBX
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Homework Statement


Using the uncertainty relation for momentum and position, show that the quantum-mechanical uncertainty in the position of a particle at temperture T is
[tex]\Delta x[/tex]~[tex]\sqrt{\frac{h^{2}}{4mkT}}[/tex]
where T is the temperature and k is the Boltzmann's constant.

Homework Equations


[tex]\Delta p\Delta x\geq h/2[/tex], h being Planck's constant
K.E.=0.5 mv2=0.5 kT


The Attempt at a Solution


I isolated [tex]\Delta x[/tex] and subbed [tex]\Delta p[/tex]=mv=kT/v.
So, [tex]\Delta x[/tex]~h/2[tex]\Delta p[/tex] ~ h/2mv ~ hv/2kT.
I've tried subing in a whole bunch of stuff for v but I can't seem to get the equation. Any insight?
 
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XJellieBX said:

Homework Statement


Using the uncertainty relation for momentum and position, show that the quantum-mechanical uncertainty in the position of a particle at temperture T is
[tex]\Delta x[/tex]~[tex]\sqrt{\frac{h^{2}}{4mkT}}[/tex]
where T is the temperature and k is the Boltzmann's constant.

Homework Equations


[tex]\Delta p\Delta x\geq h/2[/tex], h being Planck's constant
K.E.=0.5 mv2=0.5 kT

The Attempt at a Solution


I isolated [tex]\Delta x[/tex] and subbed [tex]\Delta p[/tex]=mv=kT/v.
So, [tex]\Delta x[/tex]~h/2[tex]\Delta p[/tex] ~ h/2mv ~ hv/2kT.
I've tried subing in a whole bunch of stuff for v but I can't seem to get the equation. Any insight?
Delta p[/tex] = sqrt(2mE) where E is the kinetic energy which is equal to 1/2*kT
 
Thanks =)
 

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