Find the frequency and wavelength of a 100 MeV gamma ray photon

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the frequency and wavelength of a 100 MeV gamma ray photon, a topic within the realm of quantum physics and electromagnetic radiation.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the need for equations that relate energy, frequency, and wavelength. There are attempts to clarify the distinction between equations for sound waves and those applicable to electromagnetic waves.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided equations and guidance on how to relate energy to frequency and wavelength, while others express uncertainty about the necessary equations. The discussion includes various interpretations of the problem and the appropriate context for the equations being discussed.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of the original poster's background in a class for elementary teachers, which may influence their familiarity with the concepts. Additionally, the forum's emphasis on providing hints rather than complete solutions is noted.

BeckyG
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Homework Statement



Find the frequency and wavelength of a 100 MeV gamma ray photon

Homework Equations




100 MeV=1.602 X 10^-11

The Attempt at a Solution



I do not know how to do this. I am in a class for elementary teachers and we have to solve this problem.
 
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Do you have any equations that relate wavelength to frequency?
 
I do not know any.
 
Well you should certainly have an equation for relating wavelength and frequency, the less obvious thing is relating the energy of a photon to the frequency/wavelength

You should also have an equation for that, it involves Planck's constant, h
 
Wave length equals frequency times 340 meters per second...
 
Wave length equals frequency times 340 meters per second...

Unfortunately that's the specific equation for sound waves, pretty much at sea level. The topic creator is dealing with electromagnetic waves
 
The equation for frequency and wavelength is simply speed = wavelength * frequency
A gamma ray photon is a kind of light so you need the speed of light.

There is also an equation relating it energy, energy = h * frequency
where 'h' is a constant = 6.6 x 10 ^-34 Js

Remember that all you values must be in the same units ( metres, seconds, Joules) for these constant to work
 
We're doing this in my A-level at school.

First find the frequency using, Energy (J)=Planck Constant (Js) X Frequency (Hz)
Or, E=hf.
The Planck Constant is (6.6 x 10^-34).
---------------------------------------------------
So:
(1.602 X 10^-11)J = (6.6 x 10^-34)Js X f

Or

(1.602 X 10^-11)J / (6.6 x 10^-34)Js = f

So the frequency is (2.47 X 10^22)Hz.
----------------------------------------------------
Speed (ms) = Frequency (Hz) X Wavelength (m)

So:

Speed of light-> (3.0 X 10^8)ms / (2.47 X 10^22)Hz = Wavelength (m)

=(1.215 X 10^-14)
 
Welcome to PF, Dumbfish1.

FYI, we don't simply post solutions here when people ask for homework help. We give hints, and require that the asker make some attempt toward solving the problem first.

Since this question is from more than a year ago, I guess there was no harm done. You might want to familiarize yourself with the forum rules; simply scroll down to the section "Homework Help" here:

https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=5374
 

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