Can Photons Completely Transfer Energy and Momentum to Free Electrons?

Thread starter asdf1
Start date Oct 10, 2005
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Electrons Energy Photon

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The discussion centers on the challenge of proving that a photon cannot fully transfer its energy and momentum to a free electron. Participants are encouraged to establish equations based on the conservation of energy and momentum to analyze the scenario. The assumption is made that the electron starts from a stationary state. The goal is to solve these equations to determine the electron's energy and momentum post-absorption. This exploration aims to clarify the limitations of photon interactions with free electrons.

Oct 10, 2005

asdf1

how do you prove that it is impossible for a photon to give up all its energy and momentum to a free electron?

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Oct 10, 2005

jtbell

Staff Emeritus

Science Advisor

Homework Helper

Set up the equations for conservation of energy and momentum and try to solve them for the energy and momentum of the electron after the absorption. For simplicity assume that the electron is initially stationary.

Oct 10, 2005

asdf1

ok, thanks! ill try that~

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