Quantum physics · Δx · Δp ≥ ħ/2
The Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle
The fundamental limit that a particle's position and momentum cannot both be known with arbitrary precision — a property of quantum nature itself, not of imperfect instruments. Together with the Pauli exclusion principle it sets the scale of the degeneracy pressure — the resistance of fermions such as electrons and neutrons to being crowded together — that holds up white dwarfs and neutron stars against gravity.
Highlights
- ›The quantum limit that supports white dwarfs and neutron stars
Related physics & astronomy
Across fundamental physics
Knowledge connections
- Associated withThe Wave Function
- Associated withThe Wave Function
- Associated withQuantum Spin
- Associated withNeutron Degeneracy Pressure
- Associated withMeasurement Uncertainty
- Associated withQuantum Spin
- Associated withZero-Point Energy
- Associated withQuantum Fluctuations
Sources
The primary and reference sources this topic draws on.
- NASANational Aeronautics and Space Administration
Mission data, planetary science, space telescopes, and public-domain imagery.
Most NASA-produced imagery is in the public domain; individual items are checked for usage terms before publication.