Uncertainty equation problems

[Jolene Robles 2H]

Hello,

I am having trouble understanding the uncertainty equation and when do you use it? For example, when it says calculate the uncertainty of its velocity, I am confused on how to start the problem. The problem talks about how a particles has a mass that is confined in a sphere of a radius of a number in nano meters and I am confused on what equations we use and what conversions need to be done.

[Sisam Bhattarai 2C]

Hi, here are the different ways the uncertainty principle can be used. It can be used to determine the velocity uncertainty (Δv) of a particle contained in a sphere: Δx * Δp ≥ h / 2π. However m, you have to convert the sphere's radius (Δx) from nanometers to meters and find the momentum uncertainty (Δp). Lastly, use the formula Δp = m * Δv, where m is the mass, to find the velocity uncertainty. Hope that helps!

[Ava_Osborn_3I]

The equation that relates the uncertainties in position and momentum is delta x times delta p is greater than or equal to h/4pi or you can use p=mv if you're dealing w momentum. You pretty much just solve for whatever the question is asking for given the variables.