Heisenberg uncertainty principle

noun

Hei·​sen·​berg uncertainty principle ˈhī-zᵊn-ˌbərg- How to pronounce Heisenberg uncertainty principle (audio)
-ˌbərk-
: uncertainty principle

called also Heisenberg's uncertainty principle

Examples of Heisenberg uncertainty principle in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web The Fourier transform has played a fundamental role in solving differential equations, expressing quantum mechanical ideas like the Heisenberg uncertainty principle, and analyzing and processing signals — making things like modern mobile phones possible. Quanta Magazine, 12 Sep. 2023 Yet a cornerstone of quantum mechanics is the Heisenberg uncertainty principle, the idea that physical quantities are inherently fuzzy—fluctuating randomly and having no definite values unless they are observed or undergo an equivalent process. Steven Carlip, Scientific American, 1 Dec. 2015 Alice sends her data backward in time, where Bob measures it, altering it in accordance with the Heisenberg uncertainty principle. Caroline Delbert, Popular Mechanics, 30 July 2020 The difficulty in pinning down neutrino masses lies in the Heisenberg uncertainty principle, a cornerstone of quantum physics. Dolly Setton, Discover Magazine, 30 July 2014

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'Heisenberg uncertainty principle.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

after Werner heisenberg

First Known Use

1939, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Heisenberg uncertainty principle was in 1939

Dictionary Entries Near Heisenberg uncertainty principle

Heisenberg's principle

Heisenberg uncertainty principle

heishi

Cite this Entry

“Heisenberg uncertainty principle.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Heisenberg%20uncertainty%20principle. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

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