Value of Delta X

[Jasmine Reddy DIS 1E]

For our purposes, will the value of delta X always be the diameter of the atom?

[Reva Kakaria 1J]

When we're given ∆x, it's usually the diameter of an atom, but one of the problems in the book uses diameter of a nanoparticle. I think in general we will be given some sort of diameter.

[Laura Gong 3H]

Sometimes the question with give you a plus/minus value for deltaX (say +/-5) which means you have to double that value (deltaX=10) before plugging it into the equation.

[Lia Inadomi 1I]

Yesterday at office hours the TA said delta X should be in meters

[Jasmine Chow 1F]

The delta x in the equation is usually in meters and is often what is solved for or given. If it is in pm you would need to convert it to m so you can solve the problem.

[Madeera_Mian_3B]

I agree with the previous replies, delta x is usually in meters (m). Delta x describes the position, sometimes the problem gives it as a radius which is the same thing as the position.

[Imelda Mena 3I]

So if the radius is given that is the electron's uncertainty in position? Or do we have to multiple it by 2 so it can be the diameter?

[Brandon Mo 4K]

I think we would have to multiply the radius by 2 to get the diameter. We want delta x to be the full range of where the electron could be.

[Charles Gu 1D]

Delta X is usually the diameter in meters. If it is given in radius you should use that in meters.