Velocity of a Helium-atom in a double slit experiment

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on calculating the velocity of a Helium atom after it scatters in a double slit experiment. Key information includes the distance of the first intensity maximum, the slit separation, and the distance to the detector screen. The user attempts to apply the constructive interference condition and the de-Broglie relation to find the atom's velocity. They receive suggestions to ensure they have all relevant equations and to consider relativistic effects if necessary. The conversation emphasizes the importance of linking wavelength and momentum to determine the speed accurately.
laguna
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Homework Statement


Hi, I want to apologize for any grammar errors in advance since english is not my first language. But i hope it is good enough such that the question is clear:
I want to calculate the velocity of a Helium-atom after it scattered on a double slit. The following information are given:
1) the distance of the first intensity maximum from the axis of the detector screen
2) distance d between both slits
3) distance from the double slit and the detector screen

Homework Equations


what is the velocity of the helium-atom? and what velocity would an electron need to have to reach the same separation of its intensity maximum?

The Attempt at a Solution


1) first I calculated the condition for constructive interference: d*sin(phi)=n*lamba, n integer.
2) from the distance to the screen L, and the distance of the first maximum, say l, we get phi: tan(phi)=l/L
3) from the first step we get lambda, since n=1, right?.
And here i am stuck.

Thank you.
 
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Hello Laguna, :welcome:

Apparently you need one or more relevant equations to proceed. SInce there are none under '2. relevant equations', you will now have to search your toolbox to find some :smile:

Also: in your attempt at solution you might show your steps in more detail; if something goes wrong, PF helper can put it right...
 
Your difficulty might come from not having all the relevant equations. Think about how the velocity of a particle is related to its wavelength via an important equation.
 
thank you for the warm welcome :-)

I can use the de-Broglie relation lamba=h/p, p the momentum. then i get the speed, right? :-)
I am sorry, I missread '2. relevant equations' with '2. relevant questions' when I was writing the post.
 
Good start. You want to check if you need anything relativistic and then you can link ##\lambda## and ##p## (or fist link them and then check that ##v<<c##)
 
thank you. i didnt even condsider relativity.
 
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