Quantum Mechanics formula reference

Heisenberg Uncertainty Relation

Bounds the product of position and momentum standard deviations.

Open in editor
LaTeX\sigma_x\sigma_p\ge\frac{\hbar}{2}

Variables

  • σx: position standard deviation
  • σp: momentum standard deviation

How to use this formula

Bounds the product of position and momentum standard deviations.

Important notes

  • The relation concerns statistical spread, not instrument disturbance alone.

Quick example

Gaussian minimum-uncertainty states can attain equality.

Applicability, worked calculation, and verification

Assumptions and domain checks

  • The relation concerns statistical spread, not instrument disturbance alone.
  • For the Heisenberg Uncertainty Relation, every denominator must be nonzero, and the numerator and denominator must remain correctly grouped.
  • State the Hilbert-space, normalization, operator, basis, and unit conventions used in the calculation.

Worked example

Input

Output

Gaussian minimum-uncertainty states can attain equality.

Common mistakes

  • When copying Heisenberg Uncertainty Relation, keep the complete numerator and denominator grouped; a missing brace or parenthesis changes the result.
  • Verify the result of Heisenberg Uncertainty Relation with a known case, inverse operation, dimensional check, or independent calculation before publishing it.

Continue the workflow

Use Heisenberg Uncertainty Relation in your own work

  1. Check the domainMatch the variables and assumptions to the problem before substituting values.
  2. Copy the exact notationPreserve grouping, signs, and exponents in \sigma_x\sigma_p\ge\frac{\hbar}{2}.
  3. Edit or convertOpen the expression in the LaTeX editor, then export it for your document or web page.

Review and verification

Last reviewed: 2026-07-23

Automated quality check: Kept noindex until the missing evidence is supplied.

Formula references

Frequently asked questions

What is the Heisenberg Uncertainty Relation used for?

Bounds the product of position and momentum standard deviations.

Can I copy this formula as LaTeX?

Yes. Copy \sigma_x\sigma_p\ge\frac{\hbar}{2} or open it in the LaTeX editor.

What should I check before using it?

Confirm that each variable, unit, domain restriction, and assumption matches the problem.

Reuse, attribution, and correction

Share this reference without losing its source

Copy a citation, permanent link, Markdown link, or self-contained embed card. Each reusable format points readers back to the maintained canonical page.

Report an issue

Search the whole reference

Symbols, formulas, guides, tools and commands

Start typing to search.

move · Enter open · Esc close