Compton Scattering: K, Wavelength Calculation

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on the calculations related to Compton scattering, specifically the relationship between the final wavelength of a photon and the kinetic energy of an electron. Initial calculations provided a wavelength of 6.5 nm, but further analysis revealed an error in the relation, leading to the correct final wavelength of 1.39 x 10^-10 m. The relationship between the initial energy of the photon, final energy, and kinetic energy of the electron is clarified as E = E' + K. The thread concludes with the participant expressing gratitude for resolving the confusion.
Benlaww
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Homework Statement
A photon with wavelength 0.1365 nm scatters from an electron that is initially at rest. What must be the angle between the direction of propagation of the incident and scattered photons if the speed of the electron immediately after the collision is 8.20×106 m/s?
Relevant Equations
K=1/2 *m*v^2
E=hc/(wl)
(wl)' = (wl) + (h/mc)(1-cos(theta))
K= 1/2 (9.11*10^-31)(8.2*^6)^2
(wl)' = hc/k = 6.5 nm
(wl)' - (wl) = 6.36 nm
cos(theta) = 1- (((6.36nm)(9.11*10^-31)(3*10^8))/(6.63*10^-34)) = -2620.7

theta = error
 
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Benlaww said:
(wl)' = hc/k
This is not the correct relation between the final wavelength of the photon and the final kinetic energy of the electron. Let E = initial energy of the photon, E' = the final energy of the photon, and K = the final kinetic energy of the electron. How are E, E', and K related?
 
E = E' + K
Ahh I've figured it out now, I got my final wavelength as 1.39*10^-10 m. Thank you!
 
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