Wavelenght associated with electron

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on calculating the wavelength associated with an electron given its mass and kinetic energy of 1 mega electron volt. Participants highlight the need to use relativistic equations due to the high energy, as classical mechanics would yield an impossible velocity exceeding the speed of light. The importance of distinguishing when to apply relativistic versus classical mechanics is emphasized, particularly in educational contexts. There is a consensus that if the problem requires understanding of the de Broglie equation, then relativistic effects should be considered. Ultimately, the correct approach depends on the level of physics being taught and the expectations set by the instructor.
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1.given mass of electron = 9.11*10^-31 ... kinetic energy=1mega electron volt



2. Homework Equations :: k.e=1/2mv^2 and λ=h/mv



3. The Attempt at a Solution :: am unable to get it...can anyone ry...
 
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mounica reddy said:
1.given mass of electron = 9.11*10^-31 ... kinetic energy=1mega electron volt



2. Homework Equations :: k.e=1/2mv^2 and λ=h/mv



3. The Attempt at a Solution :: am unable to get it...can anyone ry...


You have KE and also expression for it
So you can find v?
and then mv

PS: for energy conversion use: 1eV = e J (e=1.6*10-19)
 
Big caution here: if you use classical mechanics to compute the velocity of the electron, you get v > c. This is not correct.

I'm afraid that here, you have to use the relativistic formulae (\Delta{E} = \Delta{m}c^2 and m = \frac{m_0}{\sqrt{1 - \frac{v^2}{c^2}}}) to get the answer. You can't use E_k = \frac{1}{2}mv^2.
 
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Curious3141 said:
Big caution here: if you use classical mechanics to compute the velocity of the electron, you get v > c. This is not correct.

I'm afraid that here, you have to use the relativistic formulae (\Delta{E} = \Delta{m}c^2 and m = \frac{m_0}{\sqrt{1 - \frac{v^2}{c^2}}}) to get the answer. You can't use E_k = \frac{1}{2}mv^2.

Nice catch, i missed that. But its use depends on the level of question ... in basic physics, relativity eqns are usually not used ... Let the OP decide weather he is supposed to use them or not
 
cupid.callin said:
Nice catch, i missed that. But its use depends on the level of question ... in basic physics, relativity eqns are usually not used ... Let the OP decide weather he is supposed to use them or not

I suppose, but frankly, if the student is expected to understand and apply the de Broglie equation, he/she should be expected to discern when SR should be used rather than Classical Mechanics.
 
cupid.callin said:
... in basic physics, relativity eqns are usually not used ...
Usually true, unless the class is learning introductory relativity.

If this is to be solved without relativity, it is the responsibility of the teacher or professor to keep energies and speeds in the nonrelativistic regime. This teacher didn't do that, so the correct way to solve this is to consider relativity.
 
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