How Does the De Broglie Wavelength Relate to Scattering Angles?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the relationship between the de Broglie wavelength and scattering angles, particularly in the context of AS level physics. Participants explore connections to various phenomena such as the Compton effect and the photoelectric effect.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants inquire about the specific angle related to the de Broglie wavelength and its applications, with some suggesting connections to the Compton effect and electron diffraction. Others reflect on the simplicity of the topic given the educational level.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants sharing insights and raising questions about the relevance of the de Broglie wavelength in scattering scenarios. Some guidance has been offered regarding potential connections to the Compton effect, but no consensus has been reached.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of the syllabus changes that may have affected the understanding of the topic, and participants express uncertainty about the specific angle and its relevance to the de Broglie wavelength.

QueenFisher
we were having a discussion about this in physics and my teacher mentioned a relationship between the formula and some angle (don't know which!) but it's not on the syllabus any more, i was wondering does anyone know anything about this?

cheers for the help
 
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Was there by any chance some mention of the "Compton effect"? Or was it mentioned in terms of x-rays? Or perhaps electron diffraction?

The deBroglie wavelength is used in may advanced physics applications; you'd have to give us some kind of clue here.
 
well it must be something pretty simple as it's only AS level physics, it came up during a discussion about the photoelectric effect...
 
My guess is that your teacher was talking about the Compton effect in which a photon collides with an electron. such a collision demonstrates the momentum of the photon since the electron recoils with a change in momentum. The photon (an x-ray) scatters at an angle theta according to the following formula:
[tex]\lambda '- \lambda=(h/mc)(1-cos \theta)[/tex]

the (h/mc) term is the "Compton wavelength" of the recoiling electron
 
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