Math Problem Statement
A particle of mass 2 x10exp-9 moves with a speed of 3.00 m/s with an uncertainty of 0.4%. What is the uncertainty in the distance to 3 significant figures
Solution
We are given the following information:
- The mass of the particle,
- The speed of the particle,
- The uncertainty in speed, of the speed .
Step 1: Calculate the uncertainty in speed
First, we calculate the absolute uncertainty in the speed, :
Step 2: Use Heisenberg's Uncertainty Principle
To find the uncertainty in position, , we use Heisenberg's Uncertainty Principle, which is given by the inequality: where is the uncertainty in momentum, and is Planck's constant ().
Step 3: Calculate uncertainty in momentum
The uncertainty in momentum, , is related to the uncertainty in speed by the equation: Substituting the known values:
Step 4: Calculate uncertainty in position
Now, using Heisenberg's Uncertainty Principle to find : Substitute the known values:
Final Answer
Thus, the uncertainty in the position is approximately:
Would you like further clarification on any part of this?
Here are 5 related questions to consider:
- How does Heisenberg's Uncertainty Principle apply to macroscopic objects?
- What is the significance of Planck's constant in quantum mechanics?
- How does the uncertainty in speed affect the uncertainty in position?
- Can the uncertainty in momentum be reduced to zero? Why or why not?
- How would the uncertainty change if the particle's mass were larger?
Tip: In quantum mechanics, reducing the uncertainty in one observable (like position) increases the uncertainty in its conjugate observable (like momentum).
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Math Problem Analysis
Mathematical Concepts
Uncertainty in Measurements
Heisenberg's Uncertainty Principle
Momentum
Quantum Mechanics
Formulas
Δv = (uncertainty percentage) × v
Δp = m × Δv
Heisenberg's Uncertainty Principle: Δx × Δp ≥ h / 4π
Theorems
Heisenberg's Uncertainty Principle
Suitable Grade Level
Grades 11-12 (Advanced Physics/Quantum Mechanics)
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