A scattering of light particles from a heavy stationary particles,.

In summary, the conversation discusses the phenomenon of light particles scattering off of heavy stationary particles and how the momentum of the light particles changes direction after scattering. It is mentioned that Born approximations can be used in this scenario, but there is a question raised about the conservation of total momentum. The justification for this claim is that for very large values of M compared to k, ignoring the recoil of the particles is a valid approximation. However, for smaller values of M, the recoil momentum must be taken into account, resulting in the Compton effect and a change in wavelength.
  • #1
touqra
287
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A scattering of light particles from a heavy stationary particles, the momentum of the light particles change direction after scattering, and we could use Born approximations.
We also take that the initial momentum and the final momentum has the same magnitude.
But how could it be when total momentum should be conserved?
 
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  • #2
touqra said:
A scattering of light particles from a heavy stationary particles, the momentum of the light particles change direction after scattering, and we could use Born approximations.
We also take that the initial momentum and the final momentum has the same magnitude.But how could it be when total momentum should be conserved?

Can you justify your claim ?

Daniel.
 
  • #3
touqra said:
A scattering of light particles from a heavy stationary particles, the momentum of the light particles change direction after scattering, and we could use Born approximations.
We also take that the initial momentum and the final momentum has the same magnitude.
But how could it be when total momentum should be conserved?
For M>>k, the neglect of recoil is a reasonable approximation.
For smaller M, the recoil momentum has to be included, and you have the
Compton effect with a change in wavelength.
 

1. What is a scattering of light particles from a heavy stationary particle?

A scattering of light particles from a heavy stationary particle refers to the phenomenon of light being deflected or redirected when it interacts with a large, stationary particle. This can occur when the light particles, known as photons, collide with the heavy particle and are scattered in different directions.

2. What causes the scattering of light particles from a heavy stationary particle?

The scattering of light particles from a heavy stationary particle is caused by the electromagnetic force between the photons and the heavy particle. This force causes the photons to change direction and lose energy as they interact with the heavy particle.

3. How is the scattering of light particles from a heavy stationary particle studied?

The scattering of light particles from a heavy stationary particle is studied using various experimental techniques, such as electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and spectroscopy. These techniques allow scientists to observe and analyze the interactions between light and matter at a microscopic level.

4. What are the applications of studying the scattering of light particles from a heavy stationary particle?

Studying the scattering of light particles from a heavy stationary particle has many practical applications in fields such as material science, biology, and chemistry. It can provide valuable information about the structure and properties of materials, as well as the behavior of light in different environments.

5. Is the scattering of light particles from a heavy stationary particle a common occurrence?

Yes, the scattering of light particles from a heavy stationary particle is a common occurrence in nature. It can be observed in various natural phenomena, such as the blue color of the sky (caused by the scattering of sunlight by air molecules) and the rainbow (caused by the scattering of sunlight by water droplets).

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