Definitions [2]
Define impact parameter.
The impact parameter is defined as the perpendicular distance between the centre of the gold nucleus and the direction of the velocity vector of the alpha particle when it is at a large distance.
Define orbital?
Orbital is a three-dimensional space in which the probability of finding the electron is maximum.
Key Points
Key Points: Heisenberg's Uncertainty Principle
- Stated by Werner Heisenberg in 1927.
- It is impossible to determine the exact position and exact momentum (velocity) of an electron simultaneously.
- Significant only for microscopic objects; negligible for macroscopic objects.
Mathematical Expression:
\[\Delta x\cdot\Delta p_x\geq\frac{h}{4\pi}\]
or equivalently:
\[\Delta x\cdot m\cdot\Delta v_x\geq\frac{h}{4\pi}\]
where Δx = uncertainty in position, Δp = uncertainty in momentum.
This principle is significant only for microscopic objects (like electrons) and is negligible for macroscopic objects.
