Measuring Energy and Linear Momentum Consecutively

In summary, it is possible to consecutively measure the total energy and linear momentum of a particle moving in one dimension in a constant potential field with no uncertainty in the values obtained. This is due to the fact that the energy and linear momentum operators commute and share the same eigenstates. Therefore, once one observable is measured, the other can also be precisely measured. Additionally, the energy in a constant potential field is a function of momentum only, making it possible to determine both values with just a measurement of momentum. The argument presented is correct.
  • #1
Domnu
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Problem
Can the total energy and linear momentum of a particle moving in one dimension in a constant potential field be measured consecutively with no uncertainty in the values obtained?

Solution
Yes, this is possible. The energy and linear momentum operators are, respectively

[tex]\hat{H} = -\frac{\hbar^2}{2m}\frac{\partial^2}{\partial x^2} + V[/tex]

[tex]\hat{p} = -i\hbar\frac{\partial}{\partial x}[/tex]

Now, note that these two operators commute. Because of this, they share the same eigenstates. Now, once the total energy or linear momentum is measured, the wavefunction of the state collapses into an eigenstate of the measured observable. Now, this eigenstate is also an eigenstate of the observable which hasn't been measured yet. Therefore, we can precisely measure this unmeasured observable as well. [tex]\blacksquare[/tex]

Are my arguments correct?
 
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  • #2
You can also directly tell from the fact that the energy in a constant potential field is a function of momentum only. If you've measured momentum, you know the energy too. And yes, your argument is correct.
 

1. What are the units for measuring energy and linear momentum?

The units for energy are joules (J) and the units for linear momentum are kilogram-meters per second (kg·m/s).

2. How do you measure energy and linear momentum consecutively?

To measure energy and linear momentum consecutively, you must first measure the initial and final values of both quantities. Then, you can calculate the change in energy and linear momentum by subtracting the initial values from the final values.

3. What instruments are used to measure energy and linear momentum?

Instruments such as a balance or scale can be used to measure mass, which is necessary for calculating linear momentum. Energy can be measured using a variety of instruments, depending on the type of energy being measured. For example, a thermometer can be used to measure thermal energy, while a voltmeter can be used to measure electrical energy.

4. How does conservation of energy and linear momentum apply to consecutive measurements?

Conservation of energy states that energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transferred or transformed from one form to another. Similarly, conservation of linear momentum states that the total linear momentum of a closed system remains constant. When measuring energy and linear momentum consecutively, the values should follow the laws of conservation.

5. What are some real-world applications of measuring energy and linear momentum consecutively?

Measuring energy and linear momentum consecutively is essential in understanding and predicting the behavior of physical systems. It is used in fields such as physics, engineering, and chemistry to analyze and design systems such as rockets, cars, and chemical reactions. It also has practical applications in everyday life, such as monitoring energy usage and calculating the force of impact in a car crash.

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