X-Ray Spectra and Photon Energy

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the final speed of an electron in an X-ray tube after emitting a photon of energy 40 keV. The initial speed of the electron is given as 2.35 x 108 m/s. The participant initially used the equation Ephoton = Ei - Ef and applied non-relativistic calculations, resulting in an incorrect final speed of 2.1155 x 108 m/s. The correct approach involves using the relativistic formulation of momentum, leading to a final speed of 2.27 x 108 m/s.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of photon energy calculations, specifically Ephoton = Ei - Ef
  • Familiarity with relativistic equations for energy and momentum
  • Knowledge of electron dynamics in X-ray tubes
  • Basic grasp of the speed of light and its implications in relativistic physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the relativistic formulation of momentum, p = γmv
  • Learn about the Lorentz factor, γ = 1/√(1 - v²/c²)
  • Explore the implications of relativistic effects in high-speed particle physics
  • Investigate the relationship between photon energy and electron transitions in X-ray tubes
USEFUL FOR

Physics students, particularly those studying electromagnetism and particle physics, as well as professionals working with X-ray technology and applications in medical imaging.

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Homework Statement


In a particluar x-ray tube, an electron approaches the target moving at 2.35 108 m/s. It slows down on being deflected by a nucleus of the target, emitting a photon of energy 40 keV. Ignoring the nuclear recoil, but not relativity, compute the final speed of the electron.

Homework Equations


Equation for photon Energy: Ephoton = Ei - Ef


The Attempt at a Solution


Ephoton = Ei - Ef

Using the emitted photon energy as the change in energy (40 KeV = 6.409x10-15 Joules)
and the relativistic equations for energy: E = pc = mevc.
We have: 6.409x10-15 = mec(vi - vf)
Where mec = (9.109-31)(3x108)
Then we have: 2.345x107 = vi - vf
We can use 2.35x108 as the electron's initial velocity:
so vf = 2.35 108 - 2.345x107 = 2.1155x108.
However, the answer is 2.27x108. So I am off by a small amount.

What am I doing wrong?
 
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Try the relativistic formulation of momentum

p = \gammamov
where
\gamma=\frac{1}{\sqrt{1-\frac{v^{2}}{c^{2}}}}
 
Last edited:

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