How to Solve a Pair Annihilation Problem for the Energy of Resulting Particles?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around solving a pair annihilation problem involving a positron and an electron, specifically focusing on calculating the energy of the resulting photons. The scope includes theoretical and homework-related aspects of particle physics.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related, Technical explanation, Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about the method to solve a pair annihilation problem for energy calculation.
  • Another participant expresses confidence in their ability to assist but emphasizes the forum's policy against doing homework for others.
  • A participant suggests that the problem should be approached using conservation of energy and momentum principles.
  • A participant describes their attempt to use the relativistic kinetic energy equation and expresses confusion regarding the calculations, particularly due to the electron being at rest during the collision.
  • Another participant requests additional information about the problem to provide more targeted help.
  • A later reply claims to have successfully solved the problem using conservation principles.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

There is no consensus on the specific method to solve the problem, as participants express differing levels of confidence and provide various approaches. The discussion includes both requests for help and claims of successful resolution without a clear agreement on the method used.

Contextual Notes

The discussion lacks specific details about the quantities involved in the problem and the exact nature of the confusion experienced by the participant attempting the calculations.

CollectiveRocker
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Does anyone know how to solve a pair annihilation problem ( positron and electron), for the energy of the resulting particles, in this case photons?
 
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Yes, I would believe that many people here can do that, perhaps even myself.
 
We certainly do, but we don't do other people's homework here. Try asking your particular problem in the homework help forum, along with some information on how far you got and where you got stuck.
 
I attempted to use the relativistic version of kinetic energy: mc^2(gamma - 1), and solved for gamma. I then put that answer into the relatistic equation for momentum, p = gamma * mv; took that answer and put it into E = pc. That is where i got confused, for the answer was incorrect. The thing which throws off the entire problem is that the electron is at rest when the positron hits it. Any advice?
 
We need more information than this to help you. What quantities are you given and what are you asked to determine?
 
And keep in mind that collision-problems are solved using conservation of energy and momentum


regards
marlon
 
I have solved the problem with conservation of energy and momentum. Thank you fellas.
 

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