Heisenberg Undertainty Principle

In summary, the author discusses the misconception that the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle proves the randomness of the natural world, when in fact it presents a definite statement about the position and velocity of subatomic particles. Without further context, the author's grasp on the principle cannot be determined. The difference between classical determinism and quantum mechanics can be better explained in terms of wave-functions, as the evolution of the wave-function is deterministic but quantum predictions are still probabilistic. This discussion is not related to any homework.
  • #1
cutekawaii
2
0
I was reading a book and came upon these lines:
Occasionally physicists bring up the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle as "proof" that there is randomness to the cosmos. Yet ironically the principle itself makes a definite statement about the position and velocity of subatomic particles. The Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle thus shows certainty, not uncertainty; it in no way proves the ultimate randomness of the natural world.

Based on these lines alone, what would you make of the author's grasp on the principle? If you didn't know what the HUP was, what impression would you get?
 
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  • #2
I'd need more context to say. The blurb you gave states very little. "ultimate randomness" and "randomness to the cosmos" are vague statements. The book states that the principle is a "definite statement", but that doesn't mean that the statements it makes are deterministic...

Anyways, the difference between classical determinism and quantum can probably be phrased more clearly in terms of wave-functions: Yes, the evolution of the wave-function *is* deterministic, but quantum predicitions are still probabilistic. Sorry, but that's the best anyone can do.
 
  • #3
p.s. this isn't a homework question, is it?
 
  • #4
olgranpappy said:
I'd need more context to say. The blurb you gave states very little.
That's the entirety of the mention of the principle.

And no it's not homework lol.
 

What is the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle?

The Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle is a fundamental principle in quantum mechanics that states that it is impossible to simultaneously measure the position and momentum of a particle with absolute precision. This means that the more accurately we know the position of a particle, the less accurately we can know its momentum, and vice versa.

Who discovered the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle?

The Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle was first proposed by German physicist Werner Heisenberg in 1927. Heisenberg developed this principle as part of his work on quantum mechanics, for which he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1932.

Why is the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle important?

The Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle has far-reaching implications in the field of quantum mechanics and has helped shape our understanding of the behavior of particles at the subatomic level. It also has practical applications in various fields such as quantum computing and cryptography.

How is the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle related to wave-particle duality?

The Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle is closely related to the concept of wave-particle duality, which states that particles can exhibit both wave-like and particle-like behavior. This principle shows that it is impossible to determine the exact position and momentum of a particle simultaneously, further demonstrating the dual nature of particles.

Can the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle be violated?

No, the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle is a fundamental principle of quantum mechanics and has been extensively tested and validated through experiments. It is impossible to violate this principle without fundamentally changing our understanding of the behavior of particles at the subatomic level.

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