Kinetic Energy of neutron and electron

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the calculation of kinetic energies for an electron and a neutron that possess the same de Broglie wavelength, specifically 589 nm from sodium's spectral emission line. The kinetic energies calculated are 4.34 µeV for the electron and 0.236 neV for the neutron, reflecting a ratio of 2000:1, consistent with their mass ratio. The confusion arises from the assumption that both particles absorb the same energy, while the relationship is purely mathematical, based on their respective momenta and masses.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of de Broglie wavelength
  • Familiarity with kinetic energy equations
  • Knowledge of particle physics, specifically electron and neutron properties
  • Basic grasp of momentum and mass relationships
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of de Broglie wavelength equations
  • Explore the kinetic energy formulas for different particles
  • Investigate the implications of mass differences on particle behavior
  • Learn about the principles of wave-particle duality in quantum mechanics
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Students of physics, particularly those studying quantum mechanics, particle physicists, and educators seeking to clarify concepts related to wave-particle duality and kinetic energy calculations.

Dexter Neutron
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Question in my textbook:-
The wavelength of light from the spectral emmision line of sodium is 589 nm.
Find the kinetic energies of electron and neutron at which they both have same de broglie wavelength.

Logically, since light of same energy is falling on both then their kinetic energies must be same thus single answer, but there are two answers given(4.34 ueV, 0.236neV).How could their kinetic energies be different if they are absorbing the same amount of energy?

Mathematically equating the de Broglie wavelength of both gives the relation that momentum of both must be same and their kinetic energies must be in a ratio of 2000:1 same ratio as that of mass.

Why logical and mathematical aspects are different?What mistake I am doing?
 
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Hi Dex,

Could you leave the template in place ? (or was this thread moved form another subforum?)
What equations do you have to deal with this exercise ?
There is no case of absorbing energy here: the question is purely about the Broglie wavelength
 
This thread is closed. Please use the template provided.
 

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