Compton scattering and collision within blackbody

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on estimating the number of photon-electron collisions a photon undergoes before escaping a blackbody at a temperature of 1000K, where photons have an energy of approximately 7eV. The kinetic energy of the atoms is calculated using the Boltzmann constant with the formula kinetic energy = (3/2)KT. The participants express uncertainty regarding the energy loss per Compton scattering and the average energy lost over multiple scatterings, suggesting that assuming a 180-degree angle for maximum scattering provides a rough estimate, though averaging over all angles is recommended for accuracy.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Compton scattering and its equations
  • Familiarity with blackbody radiation and temperature-energy relationships
  • Knowledge of the Boltzmann constant and its application in kinetic energy calculations
  • Basic grasp of photon energy and electron interactions
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the Compton scattering formula and its applications in photon-electron interactions
  • Study the principles of blackbody radiation and Planck's law
  • Explore the statistical mechanics behind average energy calculations in particle collisions
  • Learn about the effects of scattering angles on energy loss in photon interactions
USEFUL FOR

Students and researchers in physics, particularly those studying thermodynamics, quantum mechanics, and particle interactions, will benefit from this discussion.

Bailey
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Homework Statement


Consider a blackbody contain atoms that typically produce photons with energy of about 7eV. Estimate the number of photon-electron collision each photon undergoes before it escape the object. Assume the blackbody has a temperature of 1000K.


Homework Equations



λ2 - λ1 = λcompton(1 - cosθ)


The Attempt at a Solution



Not sure if I have all relevant equation but this is what i did:

calculated total kinetic energy by converting the temperature to kinetic energy using Boltzmann constant: kinetic energy=(3/2)KT. Then dived the total kinetic energy by 7eV
 
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Bailey said:
calculated total kinetic energy by converting the temperature to kinetic energy using Boltzmann constant: kinetic energy=(3/2)KT. Then dived the total kinetic energy by 7eV

I don't understand how this helps.

How much energy does a single photon lose in a single Compton scattering? What is the average energy lost over multiple scatterings (with different angles θ)?
 
Both were not given, but I assume 180 degree for max scattering?
 
Bailey said:
Both were not given, but I assume 180 degree for max scattering?

Assuming 180 degree angle is not entirely correct, but you can certainly do it like that, and it will give you at least a good order of magnitude estimate. Ideally you would like to take an average over all possible angles.
 

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