Photon and particle reaction

In summary, the task requires calculating the minimum gamma energy for the production of K+ in the reaction \gamma p --> Κ+ Λ, taking into account the Fermi motion of the bound proton with p=250 MeV/c. The mass values for the proton, Kaon, and hyperon are given, and the concept of Fermi motion is explained. The calculation involves finding the Fermi energy and using the conservation of energy equation to solve for the threshold gamma energy.
  • #1
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Homework Statement



Consider the production of the K+ in the reaction: [tex]\gamma[/tex] p --> Κ+ Λ


What will be the minimal [tex]\gamma[/tex] energy if the proton is not free but is bound in the nucleus? Take into account the Fermi motion with p=250 MeV/c.

Homework Equations



proton mass = 770 MeV
Kaon mass = 494 MeV
hyperon mass = 1100 MeV

The Attempt at a Solution



I can't find anywhere in my book explaining what fermi motion is. The binding energy depends on how big the nucleus is, which isn't specified unless fermi motion does so.
 
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  • #2
Fermi motion means the proton can be heading toward the beam with p=250.
Put this into the total momentum for the initial gammas p state.
 
  • #3
Thank you the answer. Should i convert the fermi motion into energy units, and use the concept of conservation of energy to calculate the minimum [tex]\gamma[/tex] energy? The task mentions something about the proton being bound to a nucleus. Do i somehow have to take that into account in the calculation?
 
  • #4
The proton being bound is taken care of b using the Fermi momentum given.
Everything is in MeV, with c=1. You have to calculate the Fermi energy, given by [tex]E_p^2=p^2+M^2[/tex].
The equation for the threshold gamma energy k is
[tex](k+E_p)^2-(k-p)^2=(M_\Lambda+m_k)^2[/tex].
 
Last edited:

1. What is a photon?

A photon is a fundamental particle of light that is responsible for electromagnetic interactions. It has zero mass, zero charge, and travels at the speed of light.

2. How do photons and particles interact?

Photons interact with particles through the electromagnetic force. This interaction can result in the absorption or emission of photons by particles, changing their energy and momentum.

3. What is a particle reaction?

A particle reaction is a process in which particles interact with each other, resulting in a change in their properties and/or production of new particles. This can occur through collisions, decays, or other interactions.

4. What is the role of photons in particle reactions?

Photons play a crucial role in particle reactions as they can initiate or mediate the interactions between particles. In high-energy particle collisions, photons can be produced and can also serve as a tool for studying the properties of particles.

5. Can particle reactions produce new particles?

Yes, particle reactions can produce new particles through the conversion of energy into mass. This is governed by Einstein's famous equation, E=mc^2, where E is energy, m is mass, and c is the speed of light. The creation of new particles in particle reactions is a key aspect of particle physics research.

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