How can I calculate the smallest speed of a proton in a nucleus?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the smallest speed of a proton confined within an atomic nucleus, specifically addressing the implications of quantum mechanics and the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle in this context.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore non-relativistic velocity calculations and the application of the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle. Questions arise regarding the correctness of the original poster's calculations and the relevance of different forms of equations presented in lecture materials.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants providing insights into potential misunderstandings and exploring different interpretations of the problem. Some guidance is offered regarding the connection to the lowest energy level in quantum mechanics, but no consensus on the correct approach has been reached.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the constraints of the problem, including the specific diameter of the nucleus and the assumptions made about the uniformity of the atom. There is uncertainty regarding the application of certain equations and the interpretation of the lecturer's materials.

NoctusPartem
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Homework Statement
A proton is confined within an atomic nucleus of diameter 4.30 fm.
Estimate the smallest range of speeds you might find for a proton in the nucleus.
Relevant Equations
pL=hbar/2
My approach:

Assuming non-relativistic velocity:
$$p = mv$$

$$mvL = \frac{\bar{h}}{2}$$
$$v = \frac{\bar{h}}{2mL} = \frac{h}{4\pi mL}$$

$$v = (6.626*10^-34) / (4pi * 1.67*10^-27 * 4.3*10^-15)$$
$$v = 7.34*10^6 = .0245c$$

This answer is incorrect. What have I done wrong?

---

Edit: My lecturer's slides include the equation in the form:
1571447334208.png

I'm not sure if or why this form should be used instead.
 
Last edited:
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Hi.
I am not sure how incorrect your answer is. What is the right answer by your lecturer ?
 
Hey.
I'm just a first year, so I haven't taken anything related to quantum.
But maybe you may find my attempt at this useful:
1571501547882.png


1571501609185.png

So by pythagoras, the Delta v in three dimensions should be this.
Assuming that the atom is uniform(all deltas are equal):
1571501701025.png
so according to this interpretation "n" should be related to the square root of the number of dimensions... But your lecturer's equation don't square "n" so I'm not sure what is wrong here.
 
NoctusPartem said:
Homework Statement: A proton is confined within an atomic nucleus of diameter 4.30 fm.
Estimate the smallest range of speeds you might find for a proton in the nucleus.
Homework Equations: pL=hbar/2

My approach:

Assuming non-relativistic velocity:
$$p = mv$$

$$mvL = \frac{\bar{h}}{2}$$
$$v = \frac{\bar{h}}{2mL} = \frac{h}{4\pi mL}$$

$$v = (6.626*10^-34) / (4pi * 1.67*10^-27 * 4.3*10^-15)$$
$$v = 7.34*10^6 = .0245c$$

This answer is incorrect. What have I done wrong?

---

Edit: My lecturer's slides include the equation in the form:
View attachment 251429
I'm not sure if or why this form should be used instead.
I'm guessing that you are trying to use the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle. But, since you don't say what you are trying to do, it's hard to know.

Meanwhile your lecturer seems to be using the lowest energy level for an infinite potential well.
 

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