Uncertainty Principle and speed

In summary, Fuzzy, a quantum-mechanical duck with a mass of 2.0kg and a range of 1.0m, has a minimum uncertainty in speed of 1/4. This uncertainty in speed would result in an uncertainty in position of 2.2m after 5.0s. The calculations are based on the equation \Delta x \Delta p >= \frac{\hbar}{2} = \pi, where the reduced Planck's constant \hbar is equal to 2pi.
  • #1
forty
135
0
Suppose Fuzzy, a quantum-mechanical duck, lives in a world in which h = 2pi J.s Fuzzy has a mass of 2.0kg and is initially known to be within a range of 1.0m wide.

(a) What is the minimum uncertainty in his speed.

delta(x)delta(p) = hbar/2

hbar/2 = 1/2
delta(x) = 1
p = mv = 2v

so uncertainty in v is 1/4 ?

Is this in anyway right :S ?

(b) Assuming this uncertainty in speed to prevail for 5.0s, determine the uncertainty in his position after this time.

I'm guessing 2.2m (but really no idea what so ever)

Any help would be greatly appreciated.
 
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  • #2
[tex] \Delta x \Delta p >= \frac{\hbar}{2} = \pi[/tex]...(1)

since [tex] {\hbar} = 2 \pi [/tex]...

(a) use (1)

(b) I would guess you just use [tex] x = vt [/tex]
 

1. What is the Uncertainty Principle?

The Uncertainty Principle is a fundamental concept in quantum mechanics that states that it is impossible to know both the position and momentum of a particle with absolute certainty at the same time. In other words, the more precisely we know the position of a particle, the less precisely we can know its momentum, and vice versa.

2. How does the Uncertainty Principle relate to speed?

The Uncertainty Principle also applies to the measurement of speed. This means that it is impossible to know the exact speed of a particle at a given moment, as it is dependent on both its position and momentum, which cannot be known simultaneously.

3. Can the Uncertainty Principle be overcome?

No, the Uncertainty Principle is a fundamental aspect of the quantum world and cannot be overcome. It is a natural limitation that must be taken into account when studying particles at a quantum level.

4. How does the Uncertainty Principle impact scientific research?

The Uncertainty Principle has significant implications for scientific research, particularly in the field of quantum mechanics. It means that there will always be a degree of uncertainty in our measurements and observations, and we must consider this when drawing conclusions and making predictions.

5. Can the Uncertainty Principle be observed in everyday life?

While the Uncertainty Principle is most noticeable at the quantum level, it can also be observed in everyday life. For example, the uncertainty of a car's speedometer is due to the limitations of measuring both the position and momentum of the car's moving parts accurately.

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