What is the Wavelength of a 30 keV Electron?

AI Thread Summary
To estimate the wavelength of a 30 keV electron, the energy can be converted from electronvolts to joules. Using the equation E = hf, the frequency is calculated as approximately 7.619 x 10^18 Hz. The challenge arises in determining the electron's speed, as the problem does not specify whether to assume the speed of light or another value. To find the speed, the mass of the electron can be used alongside its energy. Ultimately, the wavelength can be calculated once the speed is established.
Pyroadept
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Homework Statement


Estimate the wavelength of a 30 keV electron.


Homework Equations


p = h/λ
E = hf

The Attempt at a Solution


The electron has 30 keV of mass-energy.
As it is acting as a particle-wave, E = hf, so f = E/h = 30,000x1.6x10^-19/6.3X10^-34 = 7.619x10^18 Hz

Now, v = fλ, so λ = v/f, but this is where I run into a problem, as I'm not told what speed the electron is traveling at - do I assume speed of light, or is there some other way?
 
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Pyroadept said:
Estimate the wavelength of a 30 keV electron.

Now, v = fλ, so λ = v/f, but this is where I run into a problem, as I'm not told what speed the electron is traveling at - do I assume speed of light, or is there some other way?

Hi Pyroadept! :smile:

If you can convert the eV into J, and if you know the mass of an electron, then you can calculate the speed from the energy. :wink:
 
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