Why is the Scattering Factor Small for Back Reflection in Hydrogen?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around understanding why the scattering factor is small for back reflection in hydrogen, specifically at the angle of theta = pi/2. The context includes theoretical aspects of atomic scattering and the properties of hydrogen's electron density in its ground state.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant asks for a physical explanation of the small scattering factor for back reflection in hydrogen.
  • Another participant suggests that hydrogen, being the simplest atom with one proton and one electron, may influence the scattering factor.
  • A question is raised about the type of particles being directed towards the hydrogen atoms, indicating a need for clarity on the experimental setup.
  • One participant references Rutherford scattering as a potential avenue for understanding the problem, implying that knowledge of this concept may lead to insights.
  • Concerns are expressed about the vagueness of the original question, particularly regarding the definition of theta and its relation to back reflection.
  • A later reply provides the complete problem statement, including the electron density function and the request for an explanation of the small scattering factor, indicating that the first part of the problem has been solved but the second part remains unclear.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not seem to reach a consensus on the specifics of the problem or the physical reasoning behind the scattering factor. Multiple viewpoints and uncertainties remain regarding the interpretation of the problem and the definitions involved.

Contextual Notes

There is a lack of clarity regarding the experimental conditions, the definition of theta, and the assumptions underlying the scattering factor calculations. The discussion highlights the need for precise definitions and context in addressing the problem.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for those interested in atomic physics, scattering theory, and the properties of hydrogen, particularly in the context of theoretical and experimental physics.

System Engineer
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Can anyone explain physically why the scattering factor is small for back reflection in case of hydrogen i.e (theta=pi/2).

Any help ..Thanks
Ess ESS
 
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Simplest atom [one proton, one electron]?
 
What particles are u sending towards the H atoms...?

Daniel.
 
Well the problem does not say anything about what's being sent towards the Atom.
 
If u know a bit about Rutherford scattering,then u'll figure out the answer yourself.

Daniel.
 
System Engineer said:
Well the problem does not say anything about what's being sent towards the Atom.

Whenever you are asking something like this, it is important that you first of all, quote the EXACT "problem" that you are being asked. Your interpretation of what it is asking may be wrong or misleading, so never ever just reveal your interpretation of what is being asked.

Secondly, I have no clue on what "theta" is in your original post, nor did you care to define it. What is this? What is it measured FROM? Seems that theta=pi/2 is 90 degree scattering. So why would this correspond to "back reflection"?

So now can you see why, as it stands, this whole thing is very vague and strange?

Zz.
 
Sorry for my Ignorance...I apologise.
Here is the Complete problem
"The electron density in a hydrogen atom in its ground state is spherically symmetric, and is given by

p(r)=exp{(-2r/a)/(pi*a^3)

where a, the first Bohar radius has the value 0.53 Angstrom. Compute the atomic scattering factor for hydrogen and plot it as a function of =2ksin(theta)=4*pi*sin(theta)/lambda.

Explain physcially why the scattering factor is small for back reflection (theta=pi/2).


I have solved the first part but i am unable to find an explanation for the second part.

Hopefully now u can be of help.

Thanks
Ess ESS
 

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