Chemistry wavelength question

In summary, to find the velocity of an electron with a De Broglie wavelength equal to the length of a chemical bond (1.6 Å), the equation is v = h/(m x 1.6 Å). The unit Å represents Ångström, which is commonly used in chemistry and is equal to 0.1 nm or 1 x 10-10 m.
  • #1
chemrr
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Homework Statement


What is the velocity of an electron having a De Broglie wavelength that is approximately the length of a chemical bond? Assume this length to be 1.6 A


Homework Equations


wavelength= h/mv


The Attempt at a Solution


I fixed the equation to isolate the velocity

h/(m x wavelength)=v

However I am unsure what the unit A means beside the 1.6.
I thought wavelength is in a unit of measurement like m , nm
h is the plank's constant and
mass is the mass of an electron
 
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  • #2
The unit Å stands for Ångström, a measure of distance commonly used in chemistry because it is on the order of the length of a chemical bond. 1 Å = 0.1 nm = 1 x 10-10 m.
 

1. What is a wavelength in chemistry?

A wavelength in chemistry refers to the distance between two corresponding points on a wave, such as the distance between two consecutive peaks or troughs. In chemistry, wavelengths are often used to describe the length of electromagnetic waves and the energy of particles.

2. How is wavelength related to energy in chemistry?

In chemistry, the wavelength of a wave is inversely proportional to its energy. This means that as the wavelength decreases, the energy of the wave increases. This relationship is described by the equation E=hc/λ, where E is energy, h is Planck's constant, c is the speed of light, and λ is the wavelength.

3. What is the unit of measurement for wavelength in chemistry?

The unit of measurement for wavelength in chemistry is typically expressed in meters (m) or nanometers (nm). However, other units such as Angstroms (Å) or picometers (pm) may also be used for smaller wavelengths.

4. How is wavelength used in spectroscopy?

In spectroscopy, the wavelength of light is used to identify and analyze different substances. Each element or compound has a unique set of wavelengths that it absorbs and emits, and by measuring these wavelengths, scientists can determine the composition and properties of a substance.

5. Can the wavelength of a chemical reaction be measured?

No, the wavelength of a chemical reaction cannot be directly measured. However, the energy changes that occur during a reaction can be measured and related to the wavelength of light that is absorbed or emitted during the reaction. This information can then be used to understand the kinetics and mechanisms of the reaction.

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