Uncertainty principle - just want to check my method

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on estimating the kinetic energy of a constituent quark with a mass of 300 MeV/c² confined within a proton of radius 1 fm. Participants utilize Heisenberg's uncertainty principle, represented as ΔxΔp ≈ ℏ, to derive Δp and subsequently apply the kinetic energy formula T = p²/2m. The method of using ΔT = Δp²/2m is confirmed as valid for this calculation, providing clarity on the application of these equations in quantum mechanics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Heisenberg's uncertainty principle
  • Familiarity with kinetic energy equations in quantum mechanics
  • Knowledge of particle physics, specifically quark properties
  • Basic calculus for differentiation
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the implications of Heisenberg's uncertainty principle in quantum mechanics
  • Learn about the properties and behavior of quarks in particle physics
  • Explore advanced kinetic energy calculations in quantum systems
  • Review differentiation techniques in physics applications
USEFUL FOR

Students and professionals in physics, particularly those focusing on quantum mechanics and particle physics, will benefit from this discussion. It is especially relevant for those studying the behavior of subatomic particles and their energy calculations.

quantumlolz
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Homework Statement



Estimate the kinetic energy of a constituent quark of mass 300 MeV/c^2 confined insdide a proton of radius 1 fm

Homework Equations



Heisenberg's uncertainty principle [tex]\Delta x \Delta p \approx \hbar[/tex] (1)
Kinetic energy [tex]T=\frac{p^2}{2m}[/tex] (2)

The Attempt at a Solution



So we've got [tex]\Delta x[/tex]. So we can rearrange (1) to get [tex]\Delta p[/tex]

Then we need to use (2). Is it OK to just say [tex]\Delta T = \frac{\Delta p^{2}}{2m}[/tex]

Alternatively could we use the relation that delta T = dT/dp delta p but then we'd need to know p as well. And how would we then use this to get T?

This should be easy, but I never know when to use the second method using differentiation and when not to. Cheers.
 
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quantumlolz said:

Homework Statement



Estimate the kinetic energy of a constituent quark of mass 300 MeV/c^2 confined insdide a proton of radius 1 fm

The Attempt at a Solution



So we've got [tex]\Delta x[/tex]. So we can rearrange (1) to get [tex]\Delta p[/tex]

Then we need to use (2). Is it OK to just say [tex]\Delta T = \frac{\Delta p^{2}}{2m}[/tex]

That is perfectly fine.
 

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