What Is the Incident Photon Wavelength in Maximum Energy Compton Scattering?

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves determining the wavelength of an incident photon in the context of maximum energy transfer during Compton scattering, specifically when the energy transferred to an electron is 50 keV.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the relationship between energy transfer and photon wavelength, referencing the Compton scattering equation. There are attempts to apply conservation laws and relate kinetic energy to momentum. Some participants express confusion about how to calculate momentum from kinetic energy.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with various approaches being explored. Some participants have provided tips on using conservation of momentum and energy, while others are seeking clarification on specific calculations. There is no explicit consensus yet, but the dialogue is productive.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention constraints such as upcoming exams and the need for understanding the problem thoroughly. There are references to specific equations and hints provided by the professor, indicating a structured approach to the problem.

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Homework Statement


If the maximum energy transferred to an electron during Compton Scattering is 50KeV, what is the wavelength of the incident photon?


Homework Equations


[tex]\lambda[/tex]' - [tex]\lambda[/tex][tex]_{o}[/tex] = h/(Me*c)(1-cos[tex]\theta[/tex])


The Attempt at a Solution


We know that the maximum energy transfer for compton scattering occurs when:
[tex]\theta[/tex] = 180
[tex]\phi[/tex] = 0

So when [tex]\theta[/tex]=180
[tex]\lambda[/tex]' - [tex]\lambda[/tex][tex]_{o}[/tex] = 0.00486nm

Everything I've tried looking up involves the scattered photon as well (like the momentum, energy, wavelength equations)

Any tips on where to look/where I can go next?
 
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Apply the conservation of momentum and energy.

One has the energy of the electron, from which one can obtain the momentum.

pph = E/c
 
I'm still stuck at finding the momentum of the electron. I know it's going to have 50 000ev of Kinetic Energy, but I'm not sure how to relate it to momentum.
 
One could do it either classically, e.g. p = mv and KE = 1/2 mv2 = 1/2 p2/m, where m is the rest mass, or relativistically where m = [itex]\gamma[/itex]mo, taking into account the change in mass with velocity.

50 keV is ~0.1 of the rest energy 0.511 MeV.
 
I can't solve this problem too! Please help me! I am taking exams next week and i 'm supposed to know what happens! my prof gave us a little help by saying these:

1). 1239.8/E=... (and i think from this we have λο)
2). ΔΕ -> Εφ=Εφ'+Εmax(e) -> 50keV=Εφ-Εφ' (where Eφ=photon's energy)
3) θ=π since (1-cosθ)=max

Can anybody help??
 

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