Relation between mass and wavelength

In summary, the conversation discusses the inverse proportionality between mass and wavelength in relation to de Broglie's matter waves. It also touches on the role of physics and philosophy in understanding the universe. The formula for wavelength \lambda is mentioned as well as the fundamental constants of nature, h and p.
  • #1
Misr
385
0
Hi,
Why are mass and wavelength are inversely proportional?
 
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  • #2
Are you referring to de Broglie's matter waves?

As Hawking said, physics' job is to ask how.
It's philosophy's business to ask why.

But briefly, interference effects can be observed with electron beams, but not with marbles, and the shorter the wavelength of anything, the more it acts like a particle.
 
  • #3
ok I change my question .."how are mass and wavelength are inversely proportional? "
 
  • #4
[tex]\lambda = \frac{h}{p}[/tex] :wink:
 
  • #5
Looks very helpful but what is "h" and what is "p" ?
 
  • #6
h is a fundamental constant of nature and

[tex]
p = \frac{m \, v}{\sqrt{1 - v^{2}/c^{2}}}
[/tex]

is the momentum of a particle with mass m moving at speed v and c is the limit speed with which any interaction can be transmitted and is another fundamental constant of nature.
 
  • #7
oh ok got it Thanks very much
 

What is the relation between mass and wavelength?

The relation between mass and wavelength is described by the famous equation, E=mc², where E represents energy, m represents mass, and c represents the speed of light. This equation shows that mass and energy are equivalent and can be converted into one another. This means that an increase in mass results in a decrease in wavelength, and vice versa.

How does mass affect the wavelength of an object?

The greater the mass of an object, the smaller its wavelength will be. This is because as mass increases, so does the energy of the object. Since energy is directly proportional to frequency and inversely proportional to wavelength, an increase in energy results in a decrease in wavelength.

What is the significance of the relation between mass and wavelength?

The relation between mass and wavelength is significant because it helps us understand the fundamental nature of matter and energy. It also allows us to make predictions about the behavior of particles and their interactions with each other.

Can the mass-wavelength relation be applied to all objects?

Yes, the mass-wavelength relation can be applied to all objects, regardless of their size or composition. However, it is most commonly used in the study of subatomic particles, such as electrons, protons, and neutrons.

How is the mass-wavelength relation used in scientific research?

The mass-wavelength relation is used in many areas of scientific research, including particle physics, astrophysics, and quantum mechanics. It helps scientists understand the behavior of particles, the structure of atoms, and the properties of matter at a fundamental level.

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