You measure the velocity of an electron to an accuracy of ±22.6 m/s. What is the minimum uncertainty in its position?
A) 8.05 ?m
B) 4.03 ?m
C) 16.1 ?m
D) 32.2 ?m

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The uncertainty in position is given by the Heisenberg uncertainty principle: ΔxΔp ≥ h/4π, where Δx is the uncertainty in position, Δp is the uncertainty in momentum, and h is Planck's constant. We are given that Δp = 22.6 m/s, so the minimum uncertainty in position is:Δx ≥ h/4πΔp = (6.626 × 10^-34 J s)/(4π × 22.6 m/s) = 8.05 × 10^-36 m

You Measure the Velocity of an Electron to an Accuracy