What are the frequency and speed of a photon after scattering

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SUMMARY

In the discussion regarding photon scattering by free electrons, it is established that the frequency of the photon decreases after scattering while its speed remains constant at the speed of light (c). The correct answer to the posed question is (A), indicating a lower frequency and unchanged speed. The relationship between kinetic energy and frequency is clarified, emphasizing that as electrons gain kinetic energy, the photon loses energy, leading to a decrease in frequency.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of photon behavior and electromagnetic energy
  • Knowledge of the principles of scattering in physics
  • Familiarity with the equation KE=hƒ and its implications
  • Basic grasp of the speed of light as a constant (c)
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the implications of the Compton effect on photon scattering
  • Explore the relationship between energy and frequency in electromagnetic waves
  • Learn about the conservation of energy in photon-electron interactions
  • Investigate the role of work function in photon energy calculations
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Students of physics, educators teaching electromagnetic theory, and anyone interested in the principles of photon behavior and energy conservation during scattering events.

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Homework Statement


Photons incident upon free electrons that are essen- tially at rest are scattered by the electrons. As a consequence, the electrons gain kinetic energy. How do the frequency and speed of the photons present after the scattering compare to those present before the scattering?

Photon Frequency after scattering Photon Speed After scattering

(A) Lower Same
(B) Lower Less
(C) Same less
(D) Higher less
(E) Highe greater

Homework Equations


KE=hƒ-∅, where ∅ is the work function
Energy of a photon= hƒ= hc/λ, where c is the speed of light.

The Attempt at a Solution


[/B]
Photons speed doesn’t change, c is always constant. And ƒ and KE are proportional, so as the electron gain KE the photon loses its KE and so frequency decreases. It’s written in the answer key C, so I want to check if I am correct.
 
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You are right. (A) is the correct answer.

Edit: We would not say that the photon has KE. It has electromagnetic energy. But I think you have the right idea.
 
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