A photon and electron collision

In summary, a photon and electron collision is an interaction between a photon and an electron that can result in the transfer of energy and momentum between the two particles. During such a collision, the photon can either be absorbed by the electron or scattered off of it, resulting in changes in energy and momentum for both particles. This phenomenon is closely related to the photoelectric effect, where light can cause the ejection of electrons from a material. Additionally, a photon and electron collision can also lead to the creation of new particles, such as an electron-positron pair. The energy and momentum of the particles involved can also be altered depending on the type of collision that occurs.
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Homework Statement


Consider a photon colliding with an electron and scattered directly backward. If the electron is initially at rest and the incident photon has frequency f, determine the frequency of the back-scattered photon


Homework Equations



The Attempt at a Solution


Since the photon has no rest mass, then it should always move in speed of light. Therefore the frequency before and after the collision must be the same.
 
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So red light and blue light, both of which travel with speed ##c##, have the same frequency and wavelength?
 

FAQ: A photon and electron collision

1. What is a photon and electron collision?

A photon and electron collision is an interaction between a photon (a quantum of light) and an electron (a subatomic particle with a negative charge). This collision can result in the transfer of energy and momentum between the two particles.

2. What happens during a photon and electron collision?

During a photon and electron collision, the photon can either be absorbed by the electron, causing the electron to gain energy and change its momentum, or the photon can be scattered off the electron, resulting in a change in direction and energy for both particles.

3. How does a photon and electron collision relate to the photoelectric effect?

The photoelectric effect is a phenomenon in which electrons are ejected from a material when it is exposed to light. This effect is explained by the interactions between photons and electrons in a collision, where the photons transfer enough energy to the electrons to overcome the binding energy of the material and release them.

4. Can a photon and electron collision result in the creation of new particles?

Yes, a photon and electron collision can result in the creation of new particles, such as an electron-positron pair. This is known as pair production and occurs when the energy of the photon is high enough to create new particles.

5. How does the energy and momentum of a photon and electron change after a collision?

The energy and momentum of a photon and electron can change after a collision depending on the type of collision that occurs. If the photon is absorbed by the electron, the electron gains energy and momentum. If the photon is scattered, both particles experience a change in energy and momentum that depends on the angle and direction of the scattering.

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