Compton Scattering formula for 180 degree scattering.

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on deriving the Compton Scattering formula for 180° scattering. The initial formula presented is \(\frac{1}{\lambda}-\frac{1}{\lambda'} = \frac{2m_ec}{h}\), which the user struggles to simplify into \(\lambda' - \lambda = \frac{2h}{m_ec}\). The derivation involves conservation of momentum and energy at non-relativistic speeds, but the user finds difficulty in aligning their approach with the standard relativistic derivation found on HyperPhysics. The urgency of the user's exam highlights the practical application of this formula in academic settings.

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  • Understanding of Compton Scattering principles
  • Familiarity with conservation of momentum and energy
  • Basic knowledge of quantum mechanics
  • Ability to manipulate algebraic equations
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  • Study the derivation of the Compton Scattering formula in detail
  • Learn about relativistic versus non-relativistic physics
  • Explore the implications of photon momentum in scattering events
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Students preparing for exams in physics, particularly those focusing on quantum mechanics and scattering phenomena, as well as educators seeking to clarify Compton Scattering concepts.

durand
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Hi,
I'm trying to derive a simple formula for 180° scattering.

I've got to this stage and I really can't figure out how to simplify it further.

\[ \frac{1}{\lambda}-\frac{1}{\lambda'} = \frac{2m_ec}{h} \]

What I actually need is:
\[ \lambda' - \lambda = \frac{2h}{m_ec} \]

I'm pretty sure the first formula is right but I can't seem to simplify it into the second!

Thanks in advance.
 
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Hi durand! :smile:

(have a lambda: λ :wink:)

If you multiply them together, you get (λ' - λ)2 = 4λ'λ, or λ'/λ = 3 ± 2√2 :redface:

How did you get your equation?
 
Uhm, I derived the first using conservation of momentum and energy at non relativistic speeds, when the photon bounces back. The second comes from the standard compton scattering formula.
 
CoM: h/λ = mv + h/λ'
CoE: hc/λ = hc/λ' + 0.5mv²

By substituting one into the other, I reach the formula I mentioned in my first post.
 
Bob S said:

Yeah, I did find that, however, it uses a relativistic derivation so I can't really see how to do the last step as it's totally different to mine :/ Thanks anyway.

My exam's in an hour so it doesn't really matter now. Thanks everyone for your help :)
 

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