Heisenberg Uncertainty principle in 3D

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around calculating the minimum volume in which a positron is located based on its measured velocities using the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle. The user applies the formula Δx=hbar/(2*m*Δvx) for each velocity component, resulting in a calculated volume of 1.12*10^-25 m³. However, the expected answer is 1.4*10^-26 m³, leading to confusion about the calculations. The user realizes that the discrepancy may stem from a mistake in the reference book rather than their calculations. Ultimately, the discussion highlights the application of the uncertainty principle in three dimensions and the importance of accurate reference values.
mat8845
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Hi there,

So here's my assignment:

''The velocity of a positron is measured to be: vx=(4.00±0.18)*105 m/s, vy=(0.34±0.12)*105 m/s, vz=(1.41±0.08)*105 m/s. Within what minimum volume was the positron located at the moment the measurement was carried out?''

I think I'm not wrong when I say that the uncertainty principle applies in every direction. Since the velocities are not relativistic, the simple equation should be:

Δx=hbar/(2*m*Δvx)

The same equation is used for Δy and Δz, and we only take the volume of the ''uncertainty box'' V=ΔxΔyΔz.

With the positron having a mass of 9.109*10-31kg, that gives me V=1.12*10-25 m3. But I know the right answer is 1.4*10-26 m3.

Even with the relativistic equations, I get the same wrong answer.

So what am I doing wrong? Note that I never used the values of the velocities. Should I use them somewhere?

Thank you for your time.
 
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Nevermind, there was a mistake in the book.
 
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