How Accurately Can the Position of a Proton Be Determined at High Speeds?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on determining the maximum accuracy of a proton's position when traveling at high speeds, specifically at (6.560+0.012)*10^5 m/s. Participants emphasize the relevance of the Uncertainty Principle, which relates the uncertainty in momentum to position. It is noted that the accuracy of position determination is influenced by the proton's velocity, requiring consideration of relativistic effects if speeds approach significant fractions of the speed of light. However, at the given speed, the proton is considered non-relativistic, allowing for the use of Newtonian mass in calculations. Understanding these principles is crucial for accurately ascertaining the proton's position.
Ve3Mike
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I have a question i am having trouble on. "A proton is traveling with a speed of (6.560+0.012)*10^5 m/s. With what maximum accurancy can its position be ascertained?" Any help will be appreciated.
 
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Go through your notes on the Uncertainty Principle. There is an equation relating uncertainty in momentum (mass x velocity) and position that can be directly applied.
 
Hi,

The accuracy actually depends upon the velocity. You have first got to ascertain the shell by which it travels and use relativity to find the increase in mass due to the high velocity and then you may use the mass*velocity equation.

gagsrcool
 
At ~10^5 m/s, the proton is non-relativistic and the Newtonian mass is accurate enough.
 
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