What value to use for uncertainty in position?

[Christian_Lee_2K]

Hello!

This is regarding Achieve's question 19 in which it asks to find the minimum uncertainty of an electron knowing that its position is within 13 Angstrom. I got the correct answer, but I would like to clarify how to approach this question for future reference.

When it comes to solving these equations, I've been told one of two ways.
1. To use the uncertainty position value given to you as is
2. Multiply the given uncertainty position value given to you by 2 because we would have to find the total range of the uncertainty to find x.

I used the first method to find the correct answer, so when will I use the second method to find x?

[Ishita S 2E]

Hi,

From my understanding is that if a problem specifically tells you the particle's position is known within a specific distance, then you can use that value. However, if the problem tells you the radius is a certain amount, then you usually have to multiply it by two. Also if it tells you that the velocity of the object is 5 m/s +/- 2m/s, you would also multiply by 2.