Atomic Nucleus?

Question

Rutherford's scattering experiments gave the first indications that an atom consists of a small, dense, positively charged nucleus surrounded by negatively charged electrons. His experiments also allowed for a rough determination of the size of the nucleus. In this problem, you will use the uncertainty principle to get a rough idea of the kinetic energy of a particle inside the nucleus.

Consider a nucleus with a diameter of roughly 5.0 \times 10^-15 meters.

QUESTION:

Consider a particle inside the nucleus. The uncertainty Delta X in its position is equal to the diameter of the nucleus. What is the uncertainty Delta P of its momentum? To find this, use Delta X \ Delta P is greater than or equal to h bar.

Delta P = _________ kg * m/s

Answer 1

You've already answered it. You know that

ΔxΔp ≥ h / 2π

Plug in the given Δx and Planck's constant and solve for Δp .