Momentum Change In Max Born's Atomic Physics

In summary, the molecules in Max Born's book Atomic Physics have their momentum changed by twice the amount in the perpendicular direction when striking a wall. This is due to conservation of momentum.
  • #1
terryphi
59
0
Hello,

In Max Borns book Atomic Physics, in chapter 1, section 3, it reads
http://books.google.ca/books?id=NmM...rn atomic physics&pg=PA5#v=onepage&q&f=false"
"If we think of the molecules as billiard balls every molecule when it strikes the wall has its momentum changed by 2m*xi perpendicular to the wall.

I do not understand how it's momentum change by a factor of two, shouldn't it be the same but in the opposite direction?
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
The momentum of a molecule changes by twice the amount of its momentum in the perpendicular direction when it strikes the wall due to conservation of momentum. This means that the momentum of the molecule before and after striking the wall is the same, but the direction is changed. The momentum in the perpendicular direction is increased by twice its original value, while the parallel momentum remains the same.
 

What is momentum change in Max Born's atomic physics?

Momentum change refers to the alteration in the momentum of a particle or system of particles. In Max Born's atomic physics, this concept is used to describe the changes in the momentum of electrons as they move between different energy levels within an atom.

Why is momentum change important in Max Born's atomic physics?

Momentum change is important in Max Born's atomic physics because it helps us understand the behavior of electrons within an atom. By studying the changes in momentum, we can gain insight into the energy levels and transitions of electrons, which are key components of atomic structure.

How is momentum change calculated in Max Born's atomic physics?

Momentum change is calculated using the equation p = mv, where p is the momentum, m is the mass, and v is the velocity of the particle. In Max Born's atomic physics, this equation is used to determine the change in momentum of an electron as it moves between different energy levels.

What factors can influence momentum change in Max Born's atomic physics?

Several factors can influence momentum change in Max Born's atomic physics. These include the energy level of the electron, the distance between energy levels, and the strength of the electric field within the atom. Additionally, external factors such as collisions with other particles can also affect momentum change.

How does momentum change relate to other concepts in Max Born's atomic physics?

Momentum change is closely related to other concepts in Max Born's atomic physics, such as energy levels, transitions, and the wave-particle duality of electrons. By studying momentum change, we can better understand these other concepts and how they contribute to our understanding of atomic structure.

Similar threads

Thomson, Modern Particle Physics, Problem 6.7
    • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
2
Views
3K
I Understanding Internal State in Quantum Systems with Cold Atoms
    • Quantum Physics
Replies
7
Views
4K
A Is linear polarization not expected from an astrophysical maser
    • Astronomy and Astrophysics
Replies
6
Views
2K
Why Does Feynman Use a Single Electron Charge in Dipole Calculations?
    • Atomic and Condensed Matter
Replies
1
Views
930
Time Scale of Atom: Understanding EM-Beam Coherent Force
    • Atomic and Condensed Matter
Replies
13
Views
4K
Why Does Feynman Use a Single Electron Charge for Dipole Calculations?
    • Atomic and Condensed Matter
Replies
7
Views
2K
I Interpretations of diffusion in Quantum Mechanics.
    • Quantum Interpretations and Foundations
Replies
2
Views
2K
What is the physical difference between compression waves and longitud
    • Classical Physics
Replies
4
Views
2K
Relativity Prereq for Will: Theory and Experiment in Gravitational Phys
    • Science and Math Textbooks
Replies
2
Views
1K
Importance of negentropy in the creation of life
    • Biology and Medical
Replies
14
Views
2K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top