Why is impact parameter not directly measurable?

In summary, the conversation is about understanding the kinematics of collision processes. It is mentioned that the scattered angle of the projectile is calculated and then back calculated to determine the impact parameter. The question is then posed about how to measure the impact parameter for elementary particles, which would require a trajectory with a precision of 10^-16 meters. The suggestion is made to measure the position of a particle in the accelerator with a precision of 0.000000000000001 meters, which is equivalent to 10% of a proton's radius. It is also mentioned that a proton is approximately 10^-15 meters across and measuring the impact parameter would require a precision of 10% of that size.
  • #1
says
594
12
I'm trying to understand a few things about the kinematics of collision processes.

I guess it's because we calculate the scattered angle of the projectile and then back calculate to get a value for the impact parameter. Is this right?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Are you talking about elementary particles or billiard balls?

If the former, a direct measurement of impact parameter would require a trajectory that is good to 10^-16 meters or so over several meters. How do you propose to do that?
 
  • Like
Likes phoenix95
  • #3
Can you simplify you answer...
 
  • #4
Cab you answer my questions?
 
  • #5
For high-energy physics: Try to measure the position of a particle "somewhere in the accelerator" with a precision of 0.000000000000001 meters.
 
  • Like
Likes phoenix95 and says
  • #6
to be honest I don't get how you suggested that number (E-16 meters). Does it have anything to do with point-likeness?
 
  • #7
A proton is 10^-15 meters across. If you want to measure the impact parameter to 10%, you need to control the collision geometry to 10% of a proton radius, or about 10^-16 meters.
 
  • Like
Likes says

Related to Why is impact parameter not directly measurable?

1. Why is impact parameter not directly measurable?

The impact parameter is not directly measurable because it is a theoretical concept used to describe the distance between two objects at the moment of closest approach. It cannot be measured directly because it is not physically observable.

2. How is impact parameter calculated?

The impact parameter is calculated using mathematical equations and data from observations of the trajectory of objects. It involves taking into account the size, mass, and velocity of the objects, as well as their relative positions at the moment of closest approach.

3. Is there a way to estimate the impact parameter?

Yes, there are methods to estimate the impact parameter, such as using computer simulations or analyzing the scattering patterns of particles in particle accelerators. However, these are still approximations and may not provide an exact measurement.

4. Why is the impact parameter important in scientific research?

The impact parameter is important in scientific research because it helps us understand the dynamics of interactions between particles or objects. It is also used to calculate the probability of collisions and to study the properties of particles and their interactions.

5. Can the impact parameter be indirectly measured?

Yes, the impact parameter can be indirectly measured by observing the effects of an interaction or collision between objects. By analyzing the results and using known equations and data, scientists can determine the impact parameter. However, this method may still have some degree of uncertainty.

Similar threads

  • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
3
Views
163
  • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
1
Views
937
Replies
4
Views
989
  • Programming and Computer Science
Replies
11
Views
1K
  • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
4
Views
1K
  • Mechanics
Replies
9
Views
1K
  • Classical Physics
Replies
5
Views
863
  • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
11
Views
1K
  • Atomic and Condensed Matter
Replies
5
Views
2K
Back
Top