De Broglie wavelength question

In summary, the conversation discusses the calculation of the De Broglie wavelength for a C60 molecule with an average velocity of 200 m/s. The attempted solution includes converting the mass of the molecule from amu to kg and using the equation lamda = h/p to calculate the wavelength. However, the calculation is incorrect due to an error in converting the mass of the molecule.
  • #1
math_04
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0

Homework Statement



In one of the classes, a recent experiment showing the interference of C60 molecules using a double slit apparatus was discussed.

(a) If the average velocity of the C60 molecules is v= 200 m/s, calculate the De Broglie wavelength for a C60 molecule

Homework Equations



lamda = h / p

where p = mv

The Attempt at a Solution



so m = 12 x 60 / 1000 to convert into kilograms.

p = m x v = 144

lamda = 6.63 x 10^-34 J.s / 144 kg m/s= 4.604 x 10^-36 m

Now that does not seem right because you can hardly see a wavelength that small. Is something wrong with what I have done.

Thanks.
 
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  • #2
Calculation of mass of C60 is wrong.
It is 12X60 amu.
1 amu = ...kg ?
 

1. What is the De Broglie wavelength?

The De Broglie wavelength is the wavelength associated with a particle, such as an electron, based on its momentum. It is named after French physicist Louis de Broglie who proposed the concept of wave-particle duality.

2. How is the De Broglie wavelength calculated?

The De Broglie wavelength can be calculated using the formula λ = h/mv, where λ is the wavelength, h is Planck's constant, m is the mass of the particle, and v is the velocity of the particle.

3. What is the significance of the De Broglie wavelength?

The De Broglie wavelength is significant because it provides a way to understand the wave-like behavior of particles, which was previously thought to only exhibit particle-like behavior. This concept helped pave the way for the development of quantum mechanics.

4. What types of particles have a De Broglie wavelength?

All particles, including electrons, protons, and even macroscopic objects, have a De Broglie wavelength. However, this wavelength becomes significant for particles with very small masses, such as electrons, due to their high velocities.

5. Can the De Broglie wavelength be observed?

Yes, the De Broglie wavelength has been observed in a variety of experiments, including the famous double-slit experiment. It is a fundamental property of particles and can provide insight into the behavior of matter at the quantum level.

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