Question

The atom is sometimes said to be similar to a miniature planetary system, with electrons orbiting the nucleus. What does the uncertainty principle have to say about this view of the atom?

Answer 1

The uncertainty principle says this view is only a guess, a snapshot of what the electrons around the nucleus could possibly look like. Specifically, the uncertainty principle says that we cannot know the exact location and speed of the electrons. Therefore, the planetary-like arrangement of the electrons around the nucleus is rarely ever assumed.