Muon Speed Calculation After Photon Collision

In summary, two equal-energy photons with a maximum wavelength of 1.17x10^-14m collide head-on and annihilate each other, producing a u+ and u- pair. The muons have a mass of 207 times that of an electron. After being produced, the muons will move in opposite directions with equal speeds. To calculate their speeds after they have moved apart, we can use the correct relativistic expressions for momentum and energy.
  • #1
J_M_R
20
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Homework Statement



Two equal-energy photons collide head-on and annihilate each other, producing a u+ and u- pair. The muon mass is about 207 times the electron mass. Calculate the maximum wavelength of the photons for this to occur.
If the photons have this wavelength, describe the motion of the u+ and u- immediately after they are produced.
What is the speed of each muon after they have moved apart? Use correct relativistic expressions for momentum and energy.

Homework Equations



E=hc/lambda
E=mc^2

The Attempt at a Solution



For the first part, m(u)=207m(e) and so lambda=hc/207m(e)*c^2 = 1.17x10^-14m

I thought the motion would be that the muons will move in opposite directions with equal speeds - apparently not?

I am not sure how to approach the final part.

Thanks in advance for your help!
 
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  • #2
J_M_R said:

Homework Statement



Two equal-energy photons collide head-on and annihilate each other, producing a u+ and u- pair. The muon mass is about 207 times the electron mass. Calculate the maximum wavelength of the photons for this to occur.
If the photons have this wavelength, describe the motion of the u+ and u- immediately after they are produced.
What is the speed of each muon after they have moved apart? Use correct relativistic expressions for momentum and energy.

Homework Equations



E=hc/lambda
E=mc^2

The Attempt at a Solution



For the first part, m(u)=207m(e) and so lambda=hc/207m(e)*c^2 = 1.17x10^-14m
Can you explain your reasoning here in a bit more detail?

I thought the motion would be that the muons will move in opposite directions with equal speeds - apparently not?

I am not sure how to approach the final part.

Thanks in advance for your help!
 

1. What is an equal energy photon collision?

An equal energy photon collision is a type of particle interaction where two photons, each with the same energy, collide with each other and produce new particles as a result.

2. How is the energy of photons determined in a collision?

The energy of photons is determined by their wavelength or frequency. The higher the energy of a photon, the shorter its wavelength or higher its frequency.

3. What types of particles can be produced in an equal energy photon collision?

In an equal energy photon collision, any type of elementary particle with a corresponding antimatter particle can be produced. This includes electrons, positrons, quarks, and anti-quarks.

4. What is the significance of studying equal energy photon collisions?

Studying equal energy photon collisions can provide insights into the fundamental forces and particles that make up our universe. It also allows us to test and refine our understanding of the laws of physics.

5. How are equal energy photon collisions observed and measured?

Equal energy photon collisions are typically observed and measured using particle accelerators, which accelerate photons to high energies and then collide them. The resulting particles are then detected and their properties are measured to study the collision.

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