What is the wavelength of an electron moving at 1 m/s?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the wavelength of an electron moving at a velocity of 1 m/s using De Broglie's equation. Participants are examining the relationship between momentum and wavelength in the context of quantum mechanics.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to calculate the momentum of the electron and subsequently its wavelength using the provided values for Planck's constant and the mass of the electron. Some participants question the accuracy of the calculations and the transition between numerical values.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants clarifying numerical errors and confirming that the mathematical approach appears correct despite some typographical mistakes. There is no explicit consensus yet on the final value of the wavelength.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the importance of accuracy in calculations, especially in a homework context where minor errors can lead to deductions. There is an emphasis on ensuring clarity in numerical representation.

AdrianHudson
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Homework Statement


What is the corresponding wavelength, in meters, of an electron moving at 1 m/s?
Velocity: 1 m/s
Planks Constant = 6.626 069 57 x 10^-34
Mass of electron = 9.109 382 91 x 10^-31
Momentum = unknown

Homework Equations


We need to find momentum to use De Broglie's equation.

Momentum = Mass * Velocity
De Broglie's Equation for finding the wavelength: λ = h/p
h being the Planck constant

The Attempt at a Solution



My attempt.

Finding momentum : P = 9.109 382 91 x 10^-31 * 1 m/s
p = 9.109 382 91 x 10^-31
finding the wavelength
First divide the numbers WITHOUT the exponent
so 6.626 069 57/9.109 382 91 = 0.727 389 51
now exponents -34/-31
= -3 (I took out the extra steps)

final answer λ = 0.727 389 51 x 10^-3

is this correct?
 
Last edited:
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AdrianHudson said:
1. First divide the numbers WITHOUT the exponent
so 6.626 069 57/9.109 382 91 = 0.727 389 51
now exponents -34/-31
= -3 (I took out the extra steps)

final answer λ = .0727 389 51 x 10^-3

is this correct?


No.
How did you get from 0.727 389 51 to .0727 389 51 ?
 
rude man said:
No.
How did you get from 0.727 389 51 to .0727 389 51 ?

Oh crap ! MY bad human error it is a typo!
 
Last edited:
AdrianHudson said:
Oh crap ! MY bad human error it is a typo!

Thought so! But instructors mark off for those too! :smile:
 
rude man said:
Thought so! But instructors mark off for those too! :smile:

Haha I will be more weary next time! So does the math look off? :-p
 

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