Calculate De Broglie Wavelength of Electron | Help for Final Exam

AI Thread Summary
To calculate the De Broglie wavelength of an electron with a kinetic energy of 40 eV, it's essential to use the correct formulas relating kinetic energy, momentum, and wavelength. The initial answer of 3.9 x 10^-10 m was incorrect due to a mathematical error, likely involving the factor of 1/2. The proper approach involves using the kinetic energy to find momentum and then applying that to determine the wavelength. The discussion emphasizes the importance of showing work to identify mistakes in calculations. Accurate application of the formulas is crucial for arriving at the correct wavelength.
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I'm reviewing for one of my final exam and I can't seem to figure out this problem:

Find the Debroglie wavelength of an electron with a KE of 40 ev.

I got an answer of 3.9 x 10^-10 m.

I keep getting it wrong and I'm not sure what to do.
Thanks in advance!
 
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You should only be using two formulas. One involves KE in terms of momentum and mass, and the other relates momentum and wavelength. Your answer is off by a factor of 1/2 so I'm guessing that you are making some mistake in your math.

So why don't you show us what you've done?
 
Hmm according to the hyperphysics website, my answer should have been
1.85079 x 10 ^ -25

would that be right?
All i did was input the ev value of 40, but I did not input anything for mass or velocity.
 
Why don't you show us your work? Your answer is not right yet, you were closer the first time. Mind you that this thread should be at the homework help section.
 

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