Pozitron-Electron interaction(anihilation)

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In summary, the conversation discusses the determination of the energy of two photons resulting from the annihilation of a positron and an electron bound to a hard nucleus. The conservation of energy is used to solve the problem, with two different approaches suggested by the proposers.
  • #1
pop_ianosd
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Homework Statement


A given pozitron with T kinetic energy is approaching an electron bound to a hard nucleus(in the K energy level, and the ionization energy for this level, Ek(>0), is given).
The energy of the two resulting photons is to be determined.

Homework Equations


Conservation of energy.

The Attempt at a Solution


So I wrote the conservation of energy as follows:
2m0c2 + T = 2ε + Ek ( ε is the energy of one photon )
Let me explain my way of thinking: After the anihilation, the electron has vanished, so the atom has become a ion(so it's energy has increased by Ek).

However, the proposers of the problem consider the conservation of energy as follows:
2m0c2 + T + Ek = 2ε;

So who is right?
 
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  • #2
If Ek is defined to be positive, it should be subtracted on the left side (or added on the right side).
Otherwise you can violate energy conservation: Take a free electron, let it get caught by a nucleus (emitting energy). Add a free positron, and get more than 2*511keV as energy => you gained the binding energy two times.
 

1. What is the Pozitron-Electron interaction (anihilation)?

The Pozitron-Electron interaction, also known as annihilation, is a process in which a particle and its antiparticle collide and are converted into energy in the form of photons.

2. How does the Pozitron-Electron interaction occur?

The Pozitron-Electron interaction occurs when a particle and its antiparticle meet and their corresponding charges cancel each other out. This results in the conversion of their mass into energy in the form of photons.

3. Can the Pozitron-Electron interaction be observed in everyday life?

No, the Pozitron-Electron interaction is a rare occurrence and cannot be observed in everyday life. It typically occurs in high-energy environments, such as particle accelerators, where particles and antiparticles are brought together at high speeds.

4. What is the significance of the Pozitron-Electron interaction in the field of physics?

The Pozitron-Electron interaction plays a crucial role in understanding the fundamental forces and particles in the universe. It is also important in the development of technologies such as positron emission tomography (PET) scans, which use the annihilation of positrons and electrons to produce images of the body's internal structures.

5. Can the Pozitron-Electron interaction be controlled or manipulated?

Currently, there is no way to control or manipulate the Pozitron-Electron interaction. However, scientists are continuously studying and researching this phenomenon to gain a better understanding of its properties and potential applications.

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