Compton Effect: Finding Recoil Velocity of Electron at 180 Degrees

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a problem related to the Compton Effect, specifically focusing on finding the recoil velocity of an electron after being struck by a photon at a scattering angle of 180 degrees. The problem involves concepts of energy and momentum conservation.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are attempting to relate the momentum of a photon to its energy and are exploring the conservation equations. Some express confusion regarding the application of these equations and whether their formulations are correct.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing with participants sharing their attempts and expressing confusion about the equations involved. There is a suggestion to clarify variable definitions and to express the problem in terms of conservation principles, indicating a productive direction in the conversation.

Contextual Notes

Some participants note a lack of clarity in variable labeling and the need for a more structured approach to the conservation of momentum and energy in the context of the problem.

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[SOLVED] Compton Effect question

A 125 keV photon scatters from a free electron initially at rest. Find the recoil velocity of the electron if the photon scattering angle is 180 degrees. (Use energy and momentum conservation.)

Am lost at where to go on this problem, thanks for any help that can be provided.
 
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How does the momentum of a photon relate to it's energy?
 
thanks for the help
 


I am kinda lost as well:
I have

hv=cp+hv' => hv'=hv-cp
hv+mc^2=(m^2c^4+c^2p^2)^1/2 +hv'

I have tried to sub hv'=hv-cp into equation 2, but I stil can't find the momentum of electron. Are the equations wrong?
 


lowerlowerhk said:
I am kinda lost as well:
I have

hv=cp+hv' => hv'=hv-cp
hv+mc^2=(m^2c^4+c^2p^2)^1/2 +hv'

I have tried to sub hv'=hv-cp into equation 2, but I stil can't find the momentum of electron. Are the equations wrong?

Why don't you clearly label what your variables mean and then express the problem in terms of conservation of momentum and energy?
 

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