Derivation of De Broglie wavelength

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SUMMARY

The De Broglie wavelength can be derived using the equations E=hf, v=fλ, and E=mc², leading to the relationship λ=h/ρ, where ρ represents momentum. However, this derivation is valid primarily for light, as it assumes wave-speed equals c when v is the speed of the electron. A correct derivation for electrons necessitates the application of Special Relativity principles. For a comprehensive understanding, refer to the detailed explanation provided in the linked document.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of wave-particle duality
  • Familiarity with the equations E=hf and E=mc²
  • Knowledge of momentum (ρ) in physics
  • Basic principles of Special Relativity
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of the De Broglie wavelength using Special Relativity
  • Explore the implications of wave-particle duality for electrons
  • Learn about the relationship between momentum and wavelength in quantum mechanics
  • Review the provided document on De Broglie wavelength for deeper insights
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Physics students, educators, and anyone interested in quantum mechanics and the principles governing wave-particle duality.

PhiJ
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The De Broglie wavelength was derived like this by our physics teacher.
E=hf v=fλ E=mc^2
so
hf=mc^2
hv=λmc^2
Then the WRONG BIT
h=λmv
h=λρ
λ=h/ρ

But that only works for light (when c=v). There must be a correct way of deriving it for electrons etc. We are expected to use this for electrons.
 
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PhiJ said:
The De Broglie wavelength was derived like this by our physics teacher.
E=hf v=fλ E=mc^2
so
hf=mc^2
hv=λmc^2
Then the WRONG BIT
h=λmv
h=λρ
λ=h/ρ
But that only works for light (when c=v). There must be a correct way of deriving it for electrons etc. We are expected to use this for electrons.

It only works if you take: wave-speed = [itex]\frac{c^2}{v}[/tex] where v is the physical<br /> speed of the electron, this is however an ad-hoc assumption here. It's not<br /> that hard to derive λ=h/ρ directly from E=hf but it takes Special Relativity:<br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.chip-architect.com/physics/deBroglie.pdf" target="_blank" class="link link--external" rel="nofollow ugc noopener">http://www.chip-architect.com/physics/deBroglie.pdf</a>Regards, Hans[/itex]
 

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