Compton effect: Scattering angle of electron

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on solving a Compton scattering problem involving a 0.7 MeV photon and a free electron. The key relationship established is that the scattering angle of the photon (θ) is twice that of the electron (φ), expressed as θ=2φ. The initial wavelength of the photon is calculated using the formula λ° = hc/E°, yielding λ° = 5.92x10-13 m. The conservation of momentum is identified as a critical principle for solving the problem, necessitating the determination of the electron's velocity to find its momentum.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Compton scattering principles
  • Familiarity with photon energy calculations using E = hc/λ
  • Knowledge of relativistic momentum, specifically ρelectron = mev / √(1-v²/c²)
  • Ability to manipulate equations involving scattering angles
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation and application of the Compton wavelength shift formula
  • Learn about conservation of momentum in particle physics
  • Explore relativistic effects on electron velocity calculations
  • Investigate the implications of scattering angles in photon-electron interactions
USEFUL FOR

Students and educators in physics, particularly those focusing on quantum mechanics and particle interactions, will benefit from this discussion.

vetgirl1990
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Homework Statement


A 0.7MeV (E°) photon scatters off a free electron such that the scattering angle of the photon is twice the scattering angle of the electron (θ=2φ). Determine the scattering angle for the electron.

Homework Equations


λ' - λ° = h/(mec)(1-cosθ)
E = hc/λ

ρelectron = mev / √(1-v2/c2)

The Attempt at a Solution


The initial wavelength of the photon (λ°) = hc/E° = 5.92x10-13m

Honestly, I'm not sure at all where to go from here. I know it's a conservation of momentum problem, but based on the equation above, I need the velocity of the electron in order to find it's momentum.
 
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why do you need to find momentum?
 
Last edited:

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