Inelastic collision of an electron and a mercury atom

In summary, an electron with a kinetic energy of 4.9eV collides inelastically with a stationary mercury atom, resulting in almost 100% of the electron's energy being transferred to the mercury atom's first excited state. This is due to the mass difference between the two objects, with the heavier mercury atom absorbing most of the kinetic energy in the collision.
  • #1
dswatson
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An electron with a kinetic energy of 4.9eV collides inelastically with a stationary mercury atom. Why can you assume almost 100% of the electron's energy can go into raising the mercury atom to its first excited state?

I know that with an inelastic collision both energy and momentum are conserved but I'm just not sure how to word it or show that it is true.

M(electron)=5.49E-4 u
u = atomic mass unit
M(Hg)=201u

thank you in advance
 
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  • #2
It's like the inelastic collision between a ball of mud and a wall. The kinetic energy is almost completely lost and converted into internal energy.
It happens when the mass of the second object is much larger than the mass of the first one. (atom versus electron).
 

1. What is an inelastic collision?

An inelastic collision is a type of collision in which the kinetic energy of the particles involved is not conserved. This means that after the collision, the total kinetic energy of the particles is less than it was before the collision.

2. What happens during an inelastic collision between an electron and a mercury atom?

During an inelastic collision between an electron and a mercury atom, the electron loses some of its kinetic energy and transfers it to the mercury atom, causing the atom to become excited.

3. How is the energy transferred in an inelastic collision between an electron and a mercury atom?

The energy is transferred through interactions between the electron and the mercury atom's electrons and nucleus. The electron may also exchange energy through photon emission or absorption.

4. What are the potential consequences of an inelastic collision between an electron and a mercury atom?

The consequences of an inelastic collision can vary depending on the specific conditions and energies involved. In the case of an electron and mercury atom, the consequences can include the excitation or ionization of the mercury atom, as well as the production of new particles or radiation.

5. How is an inelastic collision between an electron and a mercury atom studied?

Scientists can study inelastic collisions between an electron and a mercury atom through various techniques, such as spectroscopy or particle accelerators. These methods allow researchers to observe and measure the energy changes and resulting particles or radiation from the collision.

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