Calculate the kinetic energy of an electron with a wavelength of 1fm

AI Thread Summary
To calculate the kinetic energy of an electron with a wavelength of 1 femtometer, DeBroglie's relation is used to determine momentum, which is then applied to find energy. The total energy equation, E^2=(pc)^2+(mc^2)^2, is referenced, but for high-energy scenarios where kinetic energy significantly exceeds rest mass energy, the approximation E≈pc is suggested as more efficient. The discussion confirms that using this approximation simplifies calculations while still yielding accurate results. Overall, the method of calculating kinetic energy through momentum derived from wavelength is validated. This approach effectively addresses the problem posed.
richyw
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Homework Statement



Calculate the kinetic energy of an electron with a wavelength of 1fm

Homework Equations



DeBroglie's relation
E^2=(pc)^2+\left(mc^2\right)^2

The Attempt at a Solution



I used debroglies relation to find momentum. plugged that into find E, and then subtracted the rest mass to find the kinetic energy. Is this even right? Is there a better way to do it?
 
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I agree with your method.

In this case the energy is so much greater than rest energy that
E≈pc
is a good approximation of the answer.
 
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