Compton Effect: Finding Final KE of Electron

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The discussion focuses on calculating the final kinetic energy of an electron after a photon collision in the Compton effect. The user correctly identifies the momentum of the photon using the equation p = h/lambda, yielding a value of 4.42e-24 kg m/s. However, there is confusion regarding the speed of the electron, as it cannot be equal to the speed of light (c). To find the electron's speed, conservation of momentum and energy principles must be applied, rather than assuming it travels at c. The final kinetic energy can then be calculated using Ek = 1/2mv^2 once the correct speed is determined.
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Homework Statement


In the compton effect a .150nm photon strikes a free staionary electron in a head-on elastic collision and knocks it into the foward direction. The rebounding photon recoils directly backwards. Use the collision conservation laws to find the final kinetic energy of the electron


Homework Equations


P = h/lambda
Ek = 1/2mv^2

The Attempt at a Solution



All i know is i need the momentum of the photon which is p =h/lambda = 4.42e-24 kg m/s basically i just need to know how to find the speed of the elctron which i can sub into ek = 1/2mv^2
 
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would it not be c?
 
is it, i didn't think that electrons could travel at c
 

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