Max Energy Transfer Relativistic Collision: Electron & Photon

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the maximum energy transfer (Ek) during a relativistic collision between a photon and an electron at rest. The formula used for energy transfer is Ek = E - mc²*E/(mc² + 2E). Participants highlight the importance of understanding the assumptions behind this equation, particularly in relation to Compton scattering, where the energy of the outgoing photon varies with scattering angle. The confusion arises from the derivative approach yielding a maximum energy transfer of zero, indicating a need for clarity on the conditions under which the formula is applicable.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of relativistic physics concepts
  • Familiarity with Compton scattering principles
  • Knowledge of energy-momentum conservation laws
  • Basic calculus for derivative analysis
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of the Compton scattering formula
  • Learn about relativistic energy and momentum conservation
  • Explore the implications of scattering angles in photon-electron interactions
  • Investigate the conditions for maximum energy transfer in particle collisions
USEFUL FOR

Physics students, educators, and researchers focusing on particle physics, particularly those studying photon-electron interactions and relativistic collisions.

Eric_meyers
Messages
64
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


"A photon of energy E collides with an electron at rest. Calculate the maximum amount of Energy Ek that may be transferred to the electron. Make a graph of Ek versus E, labeling the scale in electronvolts.


Homework Equations


Transfer = Ek = E - mc^2*E/(mc^2 + 2E)


The Attempt at a Solution


So, I'm not sure if I have the correct equation, the reason why is:

I take the derivative of the function and set it equal to 0

E = -mc^2

and then I plug that value into my function of Ek and I get 0.. but how can the max value for energy transfer be 0? I understand the -mc^2 conceptually saying perfect back scattering but I'm not sure.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
The energy of the outgoing photon in Compton scattering is a function of the angle. Your formula doesn't depend on the angle, so it's not a general formula for this type of scattering. Wherever you got this expression, it should explain any assumptions that went into deriving it. You need to know what those assumptions are before you use the formula. For all you know, it may not even be valid for this situation.
 

Similar threads

Invariance of Energy Momentum Relativistic
  • · Replies 16 ·
Replies
16
Views
3K
Relativistic Kinetic energy, momentum, speed.
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
3K
Momentum transfer in electron-proton collision
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
4K
What Was the Energy of the Incoming Photon?
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
5K
Derive p^2/2m from relativistic equations
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
5K
Calculate the particle energy in a collision
  • · Replies 21 ·
Replies
21
Views
5K
Statistical physics - does total energy matter, or only differences?
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
Two particles collide, COM frame, relativistic velocities.
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
Relativistic particle moving in a potential
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
Undergrad How Can Photons Be Massless Yet Have Energy According to Einstein's Equations?
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K