Potential Difference in and Electron/de Broglie Equation

In summary, the conversation discusses how to calculate the potential difference needed to accelerate an electron from rest in order to achieve a de Broglie wavelength of 0.1 nm. The equations used are E = hf and λf = c, and the calculated result is 2.21e-58 J. The conversation concludes with the solution of 150V.
  • #1
wilywilly0
2
0

Homework Statement



Through what potential difference should you accelerate an electron from rest, such that it's de Broglie wavelength will be 0.1 nm.

Homework Equations



E = hf
λf = c

The Attempt at a Solution



My Thinking was;

E = hf
E = hλ/c
E= 6.626e-34 * 1e-10/3e8

which turned out 2.21e-58 J, which I'm pretty sure is wrong.

Anyone with some ideas or a worked solution would be fantastic :D

Regards all,

Will.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
You're right so far, though you should re-check your final calculation, since you're off by a couple orders of 10. So now you need to figure out what voltage difference is going to supply the energy you calculated. I would recommend converting the energy you calculate into electron volts, since those will make the voltage calculation easier.
 
  • #3
Solved, 150V, thanks jd :)

Will.
 

1. What is potential difference in relation to an electron?

Potential difference, also known as voltage, is the difference in electric potential energy between two points in an electric field. In relation to an electron, it refers to the difference in energy that the electron gains or loses as it moves from one point to another.

2. How is potential difference measured?

Potential difference is measured in volts (V) using a voltmeter. It can also be calculated by dividing the amount of work done in moving a charge between two points by the magnitude of the charge.

3. What is the significance of the de Broglie equation?

The de Broglie equation, also known as the matter-wave equation, describes the wavelength of a particle with a given momentum. It is significant because it shows the wave-like behavior of particles, such as electrons, and helps explain phenomena like diffraction and interference.

4. How does the de Broglie equation relate to potential difference?

The de Broglie equation includes the momentum of a particle, which can be affected by a potential difference. For example, an electron passing through a potential difference may experience a change in momentum, which in turn affects its wavelength according to the de Broglie equation.

5. Can potential difference be used to manipulate the wavelength of an electron?

Yes, potential difference can be used to manipulate the wavelength of an electron. By adjusting the potential difference, the momentum of the electron can be changed, thus altering its wavelength according to the de Broglie equation.

Similar threads

  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
955
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
11
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
14
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
34
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
942
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
3K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
4K
Back
Top