Quantum Mechanics: Zero Point Energy and Uncertainty Principle

Vocabulary flashcards covering the concepts of zero point energy, particle motion, and the uncertainty principle.

Zero point energy

The minimum energy that all quantized particles must possess.

Uncertainty principle

A principle that would be violated if a particle had a value of zero energy, which would mean it was sitting still with zero kinetic energy.

Zero kinetic energy

A state meaning that the particle is sitting still, which would violate the uncertainty principle if total energy were zero.