Uncertainty principle between Kinetic energy and Potential energy

In summary, the conversation discusses the uncertainty principle between kinetic energy (T) and potential energy (V), and the attempt to find a principle between them using dA^2dB^2 and the commutator [A,B]. It is mentioned that the formula for the uncertainty principle is incorrect and needs to be corrected. The correct formula is given and the conversation ends with the suggestion to use it and good luck.
  • #1
J.Asher
12
0

Homework Statement


Let's say T is kinetic energy and V is Potential.
Then, find a principle between T and V by using

dA^2dB^2 (larger or equal) {(1/2i)(<[A,B]>)}^2


3. The Attempt at a Solution

First I try to find commutator of T and V, [T,V]
then it gives little bit dirty expression..

[T,V] = -(h^2/2m) [ (d/dx)^2(V) + 2(d/dx)V(d/dx) ]
(Here h represents h over 2pi)
Then when I plug it into the general uncertainty principle,
i on the principle does not cancel out.
so the inequality cannot hold.

I thought that mathematically the second deravative of V(x) must be zero to fit the principle
but there is no clue. Maybe it is wrong also.

I can't go on further..
What did I wrong?
 
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  • #2
Your principle of uncertainty formula is wrong, just by a hair.

The expectation value of the commutator is not just squared, it is the modulus squared;
i.e. it is itself times its conjugate.

I have not checked the rest, this is all on a quick glance and that's why your i factor does not cancel out.

I'll try to latex it, the right hand side of the Heisenberg inequatlity should read:

[itex]
\left| \frac{1}{2i} < \left[ A,B \right] > \right| ^{2}
[/itex]

which goes to:

[itex]
\frac{1}{4} \left| < \left[ A,B \right] > \right| ^{2}
[/itex]

Hope this was helpful, be happy and good luck.
 
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FAQ: Uncertainty principle between Kinetic energy and Potential energy

What is the uncertainty principle between kinetic energy and potential energy?

The uncertainty principle between kinetic energy and potential energy is a fundamental concept in quantum mechanics. It states that the more precisely we know the kinetic energy of a particle, the less we know about its potential energy, and vice versa. This means that it is impossible to simultaneously measure both the kinetic and potential energy of a particle with absolute precision.

How does the uncertainty principle affect our understanding of particles?

The uncertainty principle has a profound impact on our understanding of particles. It shows that particles do not have a definite location or energy, but rather exist in a state of probability. This means that the behavior of particles is inherently unpredictable, and we can only make probabilistic predictions about their behavior.

Can the uncertainty principle be violated?

No, the uncertainty principle is a fundamental law of nature and cannot be violated. It is a consequence of the wave-like nature of particles at the quantum level and is supported by numerous experimental observations. Any attempt to measure both the kinetic and potential energy of a particle with absolute precision would violate the uncertainty principle.

How does the uncertainty principle relate to Heisenberg's uncertainty principle?

The uncertainty principle between kinetic energy and potential energy is often confused with Heisenberg's uncertainty principle, which states that it is impossible to simultaneously know the exact position and momentum of a particle. While related, these principles are distinct and describe different aspects of the behavior of particles at the quantum level.

What are the practical implications of the uncertainty principle between kinetic energy and potential energy?

The uncertainty principle has many practical implications, particularly in the fields of quantum mechanics and particle physics. It limits our ability to make precise measurements and calculations at the quantum level and has led to the development of new theories and approaches to understanding the behavior of particles. It also has implications for technologies such as quantum computing and cryptography.

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