University Physics with Modern Physics (14th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0321973615
ISBN 13: 978-0-32197-361-0

Chapter 39 - Particles Behaving as Waves - Problems - Exercises - Page 1316: 39.44

Answer

See explanation.

Work Step by Step

a. We know that the mosquito is somewhere in the room, so the maximum uncertainty in its position is 5.0 m, the larger room dimension. b. The Heisenberg uncertainty principle limits our knowledge of its momentum. $$\Delta x \Delta p_x \geq \frac{\hbar}{2}$$ $$\Delta x \; m \Delta v_x \geq \frac{\hbar}{2}$$ Find the minimum uncertainty in horizontal velocity. $$ \Delta v_x =\frac{\hbar}{2m \Delta x}=7.0\times10^{-30}m/s$$ This is not a serious limitation.
Update this answer!

You can help us out by revising, improving and updating this answer.

Update this answer

After you claim an answer you’ll have 24 hours to send in a draft. An editor will review the submission and either publish your submission or provide feedback.