DeBroglie wavelength considering relativistic effects

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the de Broglie wavelength of electrons accelerated by a potential of 350kV in an electron microscope, incorporating relativistic effects. The kinetic energy is expressed as W(kin) = (1 - gamma)mc², where gamma represents the Lorentz factor. A participant encountered issues with obtaining a negative result when solving for velocity, indicating a potential misunderstanding of the energy formula. The correct approach requires careful application of relativistic energy equations to derive the de Broglie wavelength accurately.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of relativistic mechanics and the Lorentz factor (gamma)
  • Familiarity with de Broglie wavelength calculations
  • Knowledge of kinetic energy in the context of particle physics
  • Basic principles of electron microscopy and electron acceleration
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of the Lorentz factor (gamma) in relativistic physics
  • Learn how to calculate de Broglie wavelength using relativistic momentum
  • Review the principles of kinetic energy in relativistic contexts
  • Explore the operation and principles of electron microscopes
USEFUL FOR

Physicists, engineering students, and anyone interested in advanced particle physics and electron microscopy techniques.

*Alice*
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"Electrons are accelerated by a potential of 350kV in an electron microscope. Calculate the de Broglie wavelength of those electrons taling relativistic effects into account"


I attempted the following:

W = W(kin) = 350keV

now

[tex]W(kin)= (1-gamma)mc^2[/tex]

so, now one could solve for gamma and find the velocity of the particle.


afterwards [tex]p=m*v=h/lambda[/tex]

HOWEVER: I get a negative result in a root when I try to solve for v. Therefore I think that my energy formula must be wrong (I already excluded calculation errors). Can anyone see it?
 
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*Alice* said:
"Electrons are accelerated by a potential of 350kV in an electron microscope. Calculate the de Broglie wavelength of those electrons taling relativistic effects into account"


I attempted the following:

W = W(kin) = 350keV

now

[tex]W(kin)= (1-gamma)mc^2[/tex]

It's [itex](\gamma -1) m c^2[/itex] (the gamma factor is always larger or equal to 1)


Patrick
 

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