Probability density in physics

In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of probabilistic density and the use of integration to determine probabilities. The initial problem involves determining the probability of a particle being seen with a constant linear momentum value, which the speaker is struggling to understand. The conversation then touches on the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle and the assumption of a zero uncertainty in momentum. The expert requests a more complete question to provide a more helpful response.
  • #1
volnei_cipriano
4
1
Studying probabilistic density, I know that a function that is integrated between two limits presents a probability. But how should I think to solve a problem where I need to determine the probability of a particle being seen being that its moment liner is a constant value
 
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  • #2
volnei_cipriano said:
Studying probabilistic density, I know that a function that is integrated between two limits presents a probability. But how should I think to solve a problem where I need to determine the probability of a particle being seen being that its moment liner is a constant value

There may be something lost in translation there. Do you mean the probability that you have specific value?
 
  • #3
The linear momentum of the particle has a value equal to five. I'm trying to understand how I can explain the probability of a particle view by having a constant liner moment. In my previous studies of probabilistic density, I had a range of values, but I could not analyze when the value is constant.
 
  • #4
volnei_cipriano said:
The linear momentum of the particle has a value equal to five. I'm trying to understand how I can explain the probability of a particle view by having a constant liner moment. In my previous studies of probabilistic density, I had a range of values, but I could not analyze when the value is constant.

I'm sorry to say I don't understand your question.
 
  • #5
It sounds like you are trying to apply the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle and you've been told that ##p = 5## (in some units) with ##\Delta p = 0##. Is that your problem?

Were you really told that ##\Delta p = 0## or is this an assumption you are making? You really have told us nothing about the calculation you are trying to do.

Can you try to provide a more complete question?
 

Related to Probability density in physics

1. What is probability density in physics?

Probability density in physics is a concept used to describe the likelihood of a particle or system being in a particular state or location. It is represented by a mathematical function that assigns a probability value to each possible state or location of the particle or system.

2. How is probability density related to probability?

Probability density is related to probability in that it is a measure of how likely it is for a particle or system to be in a particular state or location. The total probability of all possible states or locations should add up to 1, and the probability density function allows us to calculate the probability of a particle being in a specific state or location.

3. What is the difference between probability density and probability distribution?

Probability density and probability distribution are often used interchangeably, but they are technically different concepts. Probability density refers to the probability of a particle or system being in a specific state or location, while probability distribution refers to the collection of probability values for all possible states or locations.

4. How is probability density used in quantum mechanics?

In quantum mechanics, probability density is used to describe the behavior of particles at the subatomic level. The wave function of a particle can be used to calculate the probability density at different points in space, and this information can help predict the outcomes of experiments or the behavior of a system.

5. Can probability density be greater than 1?

No, probability density cannot be greater than 1. This is because the total probability of all possible states or locations must add up to 1, and probability density is used to calculate the probability of a particle or system being in a specific state or location. If the probability density was greater than 1, it would imply a probability greater than 1, which is not possible.

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