Dividing by this quantity nondimensionalizes many phase space integrals in statistical mechanics.
Dividing by this quantity nondimensionalizes many phase space integrals in statistical mechanics. It is multiplied by i to give the commutator between position and momentum. Taking this quantity to zero gives a system's classical limit; accordingly, it appears in the ground state energy of the quantum harmonic oscillator and the numerator of the de Broglie wavelength. This quantity over 4 pi gives a lower bound on the products of (*) uncertainties according to the Heisenberg principle, which is often written using its "reduced" version. For 10 points, identify this quantity symbolized h, named for a German originator of quantum physics.
Dividing by this quantity nondimensionalizes many phase space integrals in statistical mechanics.
{Planck\'s constant} [or {h} until it is read; or {reduced Planck\'s constant} until \"4 pi\" is read; or {h}-{bar} until \"4 pi\" is read]