Conceptual Physics (12th Edition)

Published by Addison-Wesley
ISBN 10: 0321909100
ISBN 13: 978-0-32190-910-7

Chapter 31 - Reading Check Questions (Comprehension) - Page 597: 18

Answer

No, they can't.

Work Step by Step

The measurements can precisely determine one or the other, but not both. The product $\Delta p \Delta x$ is equal to or greater than $\hbar$. The uncertainty principle relates the uncertainty in the measurement of momentum, $\Delta p$, the uncertainty in the measurement of position, $\Delta x$, and Planck's constant divided by $2 \pi$. Both uncertainties cannot be zero. This is discussed on pages 593-594.
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