Calculating Wavelength of Electron Emission

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the wavelength of light emitted when an electron recombines with a hole, losing 2.6 eV of electrical potential energy. The subject area pertains to quantum mechanics and photon emission.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to apply the formula for wavelength based on energy, but expresses uncertainty about their answer. Participants question the correctness of the units used, particularly the conversion of energy from electron volts to joules.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging in checking the original poster's method and calculations. Guidance has been offered regarding unit conversion, and there is a shared focus on ensuring that the energy values are correctly represented in the appropriate units.

Contextual Notes

There is an emphasis on the need for unit consistency, as the original poster's calculations may be affected by the incorrect use of energy units. The homework rules imply that participants must derive equations independently.

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I need to make sure my method and the formula I have used is correct. Also, my answer for the wavelength seems slightly dodgy. :rolleyes:

Homework Statement


An electron recombines with a hole losing 2.6eV of electrical potential energy. Calculate the wavelength of the light emitted.

Homework Equations


Not given. Equations have to be used ourself.

The Attempt at a Solution


[itex]E = \frac{hc}{\lambda}[/itex]

[itex]\lambda = \frac{hc}{E}[/itex]

[itex]\lambda = \frac{(6.63 \times 10^{-34})(3.00 \times 10^8)}{2.6}[/itex]

[itex]\lambda = 7.65 \times 10^{-26}m[/itex]
 
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Put units on things and make sure they match up. You'll want to convert 2.6eV to joules.
 
You've found the most high energy photon I've ever heard of! ! ! ! Always check the units, you forgot to convert the energy from eV's to Joules.

and I see now that dick just recommended the same thing. . .
 
Last edited:
How would I change eV's to Joules?
 
1eV=1.60217646*10^(-19) joules. That's what google says when I type in 'electron volt', anyway.
 

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