Uncertainty for a particle diffracted through a single slit

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the minimum uncertainty in the vertical component of momentum for photons passing through a single slit. The parameters include a laser light wavelength of 486 nm and a slit width of 0.0590 mm. The uncertainty principle equation ΔyΔPy ≥ h is utilized, but confusion arises regarding the correct application of the slit width as Δy. Participants clarify the need to use the reduced Planck's constant (ℏ) instead of h for accurate calculations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle
  • Familiarity with photon momentum calculations
  • Knowledge of wave-particle duality
  • Basic principles of diffraction and slit experiments
NEXT STEPS
  • Review the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle in quantum mechanics
  • Learn about photon momentum and its relation to wavelength
  • Study diffraction patterns produced by single slits
  • Explore the application of reduced Planck's constant (ℏ) in quantum calculations
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Students studying quantum mechanics, physics educators, and anyone interested in the principles of light behavior in diffraction experiments.

GMarks
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Homework Statement



A horizontal beam of laser light of wavelength 486 nm passes through a narrow slit that has width 0.0590 mm . The intensity of the light is measured on a vertical screen that is 2.90 m from the slit.
What is the minimum uncertainty in the vertical component of the momentum of each photon in the beam after the photon has passed through the slit?

Homework Equations


ΔyΔPy ≥ h

The Attempt at a Solution


I tried simply substituting the slit width for Δy and solving for momentum, but that gave me the wrong answer. I'm extremely confused, as this shouldn't be a hard question but I can't seem to get an answer the system will accept. Can anyone help?
 
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GMarks said:
ΔyΔPy ≥ h
You mean ##\hbar##, right?
Please post your working and, if you know it, the official answer.
 

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