Is It Possible for an Electron to Be Completely Still?

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SUMMARY

An electron can theoretically be at rest, as indicated by the uncertainty principle, which states that the product of the uncertainties in position and momentum (\(\Delta x \Delta p\)) is greater than or equal to \(\frac{h}{4\pi}\). When the uncertainty in momentum approaches zero, the de Broglie wavelength becomes infinite, implying total uncertainty in the electron's position. This concept illustrates the fundamental limits of measuring quantum particles, akin to a game of hide and seek.

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Can an electron be at rest?
 
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yes, according the uncertainty principle, \Delta x \Delta p \geq h/4 \pi, when you completely have no idea where the electron is... it could be at rest...(it's like playing HIDE AND SEEK when you were young)
 
vincentchan said:
yes, according the uncertainty principle, \Delta x \Delta p \geq h/4 \pi, when you completely have no idea where the electron is... it could be at rest...(it's like playing HIDE AND SEEK when you were young)

Ahhh, so that is what is meant when the de broglie wavelength is infinite? h/0
 
yes, p = hk/2\pi = h/ \lambda
if the uncertainty of momentum is zero, sure the wavelength will go to infinity. That's also mean you have completely no idea where the electron is...
 

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