What does "minimum range of uncertainty" mean in QM?

In summary, the problem involves determining the size of the spot on a screen where a photon will hit after passing through a single horizontal slit. The known factors include the wavelength, slit width, magnitude of momentum of the incoming photon, and distance between the screen and the slit. The question is asking for the minimum range of uncertainty in the component of the photon's momentum parallel to the slit, which will affect the size of the spot on the screen.
  • #1
Summer95
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Homework Statement


[/B]
The problem on where the photon will hit a screen, after passing through a single horizontal slit.

I know the wavelength, slit width, magnitude of momentum of incoming photon (calculated), and distance between screen and slit.

Homework Equations



I just don't understand what the question is asking. What does minimum range of uncertainty mean?
 
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  • #2
If you send a bunch of photons through the slit, you'll get a spot on the screen. The problem is essentially asking you to find the size of that spot. There's a limit to how small the spot will be because of the uncertainty in the component of the photon's momentum parallel to the slit.
 

FAQ: What does "minimum range of uncertainty" mean in QM?

1. What is the minimum range of uncertainty in quantum mechanics?

The minimum range of uncertainty in quantum mechanics refers to the smallest possible range of values that can be measured for a particular physical quantity, such as position or momentum. This concept is a fundamental principle in quantum mechanics and is related to the Heisenberg uncertainty principle.

2. How is the minimum range of uncertainty related to the Heisenberg uncertainty principle?

The Heisenberg uncertainty principle states that it is impossible to know both the position and momentum of a particle with absolute certainty. This means that there will always be a minimum range of uncertainty in the measurement of these quantities. The minimum range of uncertainty is directly related to the precision of the measurement and the inherent uncertainty in the quantum system.

3. Can the minimum range of uncertainty be decreased or eliminated?

No, the minimum range of uncertainty is a fundamental property of quantum mechanics and cannot be eliminated. It is a consequence of the probabilistic nature of quantum systems and the limitations of measurement in the microscopic world.

4. How does the minimum range of uncertainty impact our understanding of the physical world?

The minimum range of uncertainty is a key aspect of quantum mechanics that challenges our classical understanding of the physical world. It shows that at the quantum level, the behavior of particles is inherently uncertain and that we can only make probabilistic predictions about their properties. This has significant implications for our understanding of reality and the limits of our knowledge.

5. Are there any practical applications of the minimum range of uncertainty?

Yes, the minimum range of uncertainty has important applications in quantum technologies such as quantum computing and cryptography. It also plays a crucial role in the development of new materials and technologies, as our understanding of the behavior of particles at the quantum level continues to advance.

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