(N/A) Heisenberg's uncertainty principle states that it is impossible to determine simultaneously both the exact position $(\Delta x)$ and the exact momentum $(\Delta p)$ of a microscopic particle.
The mathematical expression for this principle is given by:
$\Delta x \cdot \Delta p \geq \frac{h}{4 \pi}$
Where:
- $\Delta x$ is the uncertainty in position.
- $\Delta p$ is the uncertainty in momentum.
- $h$ is Planck's constant.
Key implications:
$1$. If the position of a particle is measured precisely $(\Delta x \rightarrow 0)$,the uncertainty in its momentum becomes infinite $(\Delta p \rightarrow \infty)$.
$2$. Conversely,if the momentum is measured precisely $(\Delta p \rightarrow 0)$,the uncertainty in its position becomes infinite $(\Delta x \rightarrow \infty)$.
$3$. This principle implies that for microscopic particles like electrons,we cannot define a precise trajectory,as it is impossible to know both position and momentum at the same time.
$4$. For an electron with a definite momentum $p$,the de Broglie wavelength is $\lambda = \frac{h}{p}$. $A$ wave of a single,definite wavelength extends throughout space,meaning the electron is not localized in any finite region,which is consistent with $\Delta x \rightarrow \infty$.