SUMMARY
The de Broglie wavelength of a 220 lb fullback running the 40-yard dash at a speed of 19.6 ± 0.1 mi/h is calculated using the formula λ=h/(mu). The correct conversion of speed from miles per hour to meters per second is crucial, with the accurate conversion factor being 1 mile = 0.6241 kilometers. The calculated wavelength is 5.847 x 10^-41 m, but the textbook answer is 7.6 x 10^-37 m, indicating an error in the speed conversion. The mass conversion from pounds to kilograms is correctly calculated as 99.792 kg.
PREREQUISITES
- Understanding of de Broglie wavelength formula: λ=h/(mu)
- Knowledge of unit conversions between miles per hour and meters per second
- Familiarity with mass conversion from pounds to kilograms
- Basic principles of quantum mechanics
NEXT STEPS
- Review unit conversion techniques for speed and mass
- Study the implications of de Broglie wavelength in quantum mechanics
- Learn about the significance of Planck's constant (h) in physics
- Explore examples of calculating de Broglie wavelengths for various objects
USEFUL FOR
Students in physics, particularly those studying quantum mechanics and wave-particle duality, as well as educators looking for practical examples of applying the de Broglie wavelength concept.