Finding the frequency of a subatomic particle in motion?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the frequency of a subatomic particle given its energy of 240 MeV. The relationship between energy and frequency is explored using the equation E=hv, where E is energy, h is Planck's constant, and v is frequency.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss converting MeV to joules and applying the equation E=hv to find frequency. There is uncertainty about the calculations and whether velocity plays a role in the context of the problem.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided clarifications regarding the method and the importance of not rounding intermediate values in calculations. There is an ongoing exploration of the relationship between energy and velocity in the context of the problem.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the need for careful handling of significant figures in calculations and the potential implications of velocity on energy, though the exact role of velocity in this specific context remains under discussion.

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If a subatomic particle is moving with an energy equal to 240. mev, what is the frequency associated with this particle ?
E=hv where E = energy of the particle, h = Planck's constant and v = frequency
I thought I would solve this by first converting MeV into joules, and then using the equation E=hv to solve for the frequency. However, it seems that was incorrect :(. Maybe my math was incorrect, but I think I'm missing something. I think because the particle is in motion, velocity may be a factor? I'm not exactly sure. Thanks in advance for your help.
 
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Loaded said:
If a subatomic particle is moving with an energy equal to 240. mev, what is the frequency associated with this particle ?
E=hv where E = energy of the particle, h = Planck's constant and v = frequency
I thought I would solve this by first converting MeV into joules, and then using the equation E=hv to solve for the frequency. However, it seems that was incorrect :(. Maybe my math was incorrect, but I think I'm missing something. I think because the particle is in motion, velocity may be a factor? I'm not exactly sure. Thanks in advance for your help.
Welcome to Physics Forums.

Your method is indeed correct. If you post your attempted solution, perhaps we could point out where you've gone wrong with the arithmetic.

With regards to your final comment, velocity is indeed a factor but this information is contained within the energy term of Planck's relationship (i.e. the E in your equation). Put simply, the greater velocity the greater the energy of the particle.
 
Ah okay thanks for clarifying.

As for my solution -

1 MeV = 1.6e-13 J

-- 240 MeV x 1.6e-13 = 3.84e-11 J

-- 3.84e-11 J / 6.626e-34 m2 kg / s = 5.79e22 Hz
 
Loaded said:
Ah okay thanks for clarifying.

As for my solution -

1 MeV = 1.6e-13 J

-- 240 MeV x 1.6e-13 = 3.84e-11 J

-- 3.84e-11 J / 6.626e-34 m2 kg / s = 5.79e22 Hz
If you're entering your solution online, you need to be careful with rounding. Do not round any intermediate values and ensure that your final answer is given in the required number of sig. figs.
 

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