What is the energy imparted to each electron in Compton-scattering at 87.0°?

  • Thread starter asdf12312
  • Start date
In summary, Compton scattering is a phenomenon where a photon collides with an electron, transferring some of its energy and causing the electron to emit a new photon. It provides evidence for the dual nature of light and quantization of energy, and is used in medical imaging and other fields. The amount of energy transferred depends on factors such as the initial energy of the photon, angle of scattering, and mass of the electron. The Compton scattering problem is solved using a formula derived from conservation laws. Real-life applications include medical imaging, astronomy, materials science, and nuclear physics.
  • #1
asdf12312
199
1

Homework Statement


Photons of wavelength 59.0 pm are Compton-scattered from a free electron in an aluminum block, at 87.0° from the original direction. What energy (in electronvolts) has been imparted to each electron?

Homework Equations


[itex]\frac{h}{mc}[/itex] = 0.0024nm for e-
∇λ = [itex]\frac{h}{mc}[/itex] (1-cosθ)
hc = 1240 eV*nm

The Attempt at a Solution


I got as answer: 2.02 [itex]\times[/itex] 104eV (its wrong):

∇λ = 0.0024nm *(1-cos(87°)) = 0.0023nm
λ2 = λ1+∇λ = 0.059nm + 0.0023nm = 0.0613nm
E2 = hc/λ2 = 1240eV*nm / 0.0613nm = 2.02 [itex]\times[/itex] 104eV
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
figured out what i was doing wrong. nevermind
 

1. What is Compton scattering?

Compton scattering is a phenomenon that occurs when a photon (particle of light) collides with an electron. The photon transfers some of its energy to the electron, causing it to recoil and emit a new photon with less energy.

2. Why is Compton scattering important in physics?

Compton scattering is important because it provides evidence for the dual nature of light (wave-particle duality) and also helps to confirm the concept of quantization of energy. It is also used in medical imaging techniques such as X-rays.

3. What factors affect the amount of energy transferred in a Compton scattering interaction?

The amount of energy transferred in a Compton scattering interaction depends on the initial energy of the incoming photon, the angle of scattering, and the mass of the electron. The energy transfer is also inversely proportional to the mass of the electron.

4. How is the Compton scattering problem solved?

The Compton scattering problem is solved using the Compton scattering formula, which takes into account the initial and final energies of the photon and the angle of scattering. This formula is derived from the laws of conservation of energy and momentum.

5. What are some real-life applications of Compton scattering?

Compton scattering is used in medical imaging techniques such as X-rays to create images of the internal structures of the body. It is also used in astronomy to study the composition and properties of celestial objects. In addition, it has applications in materials science and nuclear physics.

Similar threads

Replies
1
Views
801
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
3K
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
6K
Replies
7
Views
5K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
4K
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
7
Views
13K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
2K
Back
Top