Max Energy of Electron After Collision with Particle: 5.0 MeV Alpha

[Zit501]

Homework Statement

A particle (nonrelativistic) of mass M and with kinetic energy E₀ collides with an
electron at rest of mass m. Show from elementary considerations (i.e. rst year
physics) that the maximum energy of the electron after the collision is E₀(4m/M).
Determine this energy for a 5.0 MeV alpha particle.

Homework Equations

E = 1/2 m V²

P_in = P_out

The Attempt at a Solution

I made v the subject of the formula in the kinetic energy equation. Then subbing this into the momentum equation just seems like a big mess. Where else should I start? or am I on the right track?

Thanks!

 

[tiny-tim]

Hi Zit501!

I made v the subject of the formula in the kinetic energy equation. Then subbing this into the momentum equation just seems like a big mess. Where else should I start? or am I on the right track?

Should work …

show us what equations you get ​