- #1
curto
- 20
- 0
Homework Statement
A neutron in an atomic nucleus is bound to other neutrons and protons in the nucleus by the strong nuclear force when it comes within about 1 fm of another particle . What is the approximate kinetic energy in MeV of a neutron that is localised to within such a region? Take delta(x)*delta(p) = h/(4pi) and rest energy of neutron to be 939 MeV. Give your result to 2 significant figures.
Homework Equations
[tex]\Delta[/tex]X[tex]\Delta[/tex]P = h/4[tex]\pi[/tex]
KE = P2/2m
The Attempt at a Solution
We know [tex]\Delta[/tex]X = 1x10-15m and we know E0 = 939MeV and [tex]\Delta[/tex]P can be easily determined. However, I don't know how to continue because I don't think we're given enough information. A couple people in my class have mentioned that we should assume [tex]\Delta[/tex]P ~ P in which this would make the question simple. I don't understand this since our [tex]\Delta[/tex]X is very small so our [tex]\Delta[/tex]P would be very large. But the uncertainty in this case is just a number so it could be anything so how is it at all related to P hence why the hell can we just assume [tex]\Delta[/tex]P ~ P?? Or are my classmates wrong like I think they are