Heisenberg established what is known as the uncertainty principle in quantum mechanics. It states, at the atomic level, the limitations of realizing a given particle’s position and momentum simultaneously.

Philosophical Engineering Design Point:

This principle is unique in that it defines the degree of uncertainty in determining position or momentum for a particle. Neither can be determined without sacrificing one for the other. But at the same time, despite the uncertainty in one, there is the realization of certainty of the other for the particle in consideration. Measuring for position, one loses the measurement for momentum and vice versa.

The idea that something can be certain and uncertain simultaneously seems paradoxical, but perhaps we can learn something greater by giving up a little certainty on one end, giving up a neighboring piece in a jigsaw puzzle to get part of the picture we’re after at a given time. We can see the certainty or uncertainty in the same set of results, predictability or even magical experiences. We can always be certain of uncertainty–when we’re getting an answer, it’s because we gave up another question.